Title: ``The Proteomics Data Management and the Human Proteomics Initiative''
Speaker: Randall K. Julian, Jr.; Sr. Research Scientist; Lilly Research Laboratories
Place: Stanley Coulter (SC) 239; Tuesday, 4:30pm

Abstract

The Human Proteomics Organization (HUPO) represents a coordinated effort to map the human proteome. Unlike the genome, the measurements needed to characterize the proteome are as diverse as they are complex. Around the world, labs are already using highly specialized instrumentation and generating significant quantities of multidimensional data on purified proteins and complex biological mixtures alike. Proteomics experiments now commonly involve multiple stages of separation as well as multiple stages of high resolution spectroscopy, typically mass spectrometry.

The multidisciplinary nature of the subject, the large volume of data, and the complexity of the experimental apparatus has made it very difficult to share significant portions of data between laboratories. This makes analysis and confirmation practically impossible - a serious challenge to any large scale project.

Beyond simply allowing data to be reviewed, it is now becoming widely recognized that statistical and numerical analyses are required for the proper identification and quantitation of proteins, especially in determining their differential expression in biological systems. It is therefore essential that a common method for describing methods and experimental results be established to provide access to these disciplines, lest we will "drown in information, and starve for knowledge."

This presentation will outline the objectives of the Human Proteomics Organization's "Proteomics Standardization Initiative" (PSI). An overview of the activities of the PSI and a preview of the standard being developed for the HUPO World Congress in October will be given. This talk will also seek feedback on methodologies and approaches and hopefully stimulate discussion on the development of a centralized repository for proteomics data and the challenges and benefits such a system represents.