With the completion of the Human Genome Project, scientists now are turning their attention to the proteins produced by genes. This emerging field is called proteomics, and it’s the basis of a new cancer consultation service offered by the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at The University of Texas Medical School at Houston.

“We are trying to outsmart the cancer." “We are proposing to take signal transduction data and translate it into potential clinical treatments in collaboration with our clinical colleagues.” - Robert E. Brown, MD

The “Consultative Proteomics” service, which started July 1, 2007, analyzes the protein activity in patient tumors, providing information useful in prescribing treatments and determining the risk of recurrence.

The service is based on a type of protein study called morphoproteomics and involves a visual inspection of proteins in malignant cells. The team looks for changes in cellular location and state of activation of the proteins which can help oncologists identify the vulnerable parts of malignant cells.

The Consultative Proteomics Service team at the UT Medical School includes (left to right): Dr. Jianguo Xiao; Bheravi Patel; Dr. Bihong Zhao; Richard Breckenridge; Dr. Robert E. Brown; Dr. Maryam J. Zenali; Dr. Marylee M. Kott; and Pamela Kay Johnston.

Consultative proteomics reports are often covered by insurance and must be requested by a physician.