Protein Sequencing: Unlocking the Mysteries of Life at the Molecular Level
Protein sequencing is a critical process in the field of molecular biology that allows scientists to determine the precise order of amino acids in a protein. Proteins, often described as the building blocks of life, play essential roles in nearly every cellular function, from catalyzing metabolic reactions to supporting structural frameworks and facilitating communication between cells. Understanding the exact sequence of amino acids in a protein provides invaluable insights into its function, structure, and interactions with other biomolecules.
The process of protein sequencing has evolved considerably since its inception. Early methods, such as the Edman degradation technique, allowed researchers to determine amino acid sequences one residue at a time from the N-terminal end of the protein. This approach, although revolutionary at the time, was limited to relatively short peptides and required highly purified protein samples. Despite these limitations, Edman…