Advances in technology have helped to change studies in the life sciences. Of note is the current emphasis on genome-wide scale measurements of DNA sequence and gene expression at the mRNA and protein levels. We use a 'proteomic' approach to the study of protein expression in cerebrospinal fluid with the goal of identifying molecular markers for disease. Given the escalating concern over the transmissible spongiform encephalopathies, there is an urgent need for reliable antemortem diagnostic tests for the prion diseases (e.g. Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease and bovine spongiform encephalopathy). Using a proteomics strategy we have identified the 14-3-3 protein as a sensitive (>96%) and specific (>99%) molecular marker for antemortem Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. We have found that a 14-3-3 immunoassay is also effective in identifying animals with transmissible spongiform encephalopathy. We have also recently identified Apoliprotein E as a molecular marker capable of distinguishing new variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease from sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. We will also discuss opportunities for technology development that interface proteomics with MEMS.

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