Proteomics.

“Omics” is a term designating a complete analysis of biological systems in which entire metabolic pathways are studied. “Omics” changes the methodological approach from small-scale research of one gene, one protein, or one metabolic reaction to the large comprehensive level of synthetic study in which the entire genome, protein composition, or metabolic pathway is studied simultaneously. The main breakthrough to the “omics era” was a confirmation of the complete human genome sequence. Entering this new research territory was possible because of an improvement in scientific instrumentation that has been able to perform high-sensitivity testing at high-throughput mode. The software-directed, “walk-away” DNA and protein microarray or highly sensitive, operator-friendly mass spectrometry have become a driving force for omics research. These instruments become data factories that produce enormous amounts of information, transcending the capacity of the human brain. The need to store and analyze such a large amount of data has stimulated the advancement of new bioinformatics tools that contribute significantly to the development of “omics” disciplines. Despite its short history, this comprehensive methodology has proved its effectiveness by advancing our understanding of physiological and pathological processes, which brings hope for more accurate diagnosis and treatment of diseases.1