Functional proteomics: mapping protein-protein interactions and pathways.

The function of a protein is defined by its interactions with other proteins and molecules. Mapping of protein interactions can highlight new functionalities for a known protein or can even define the function of novel proteins. With the draft sequence of the human genome now available, it is possible to perform high-throughput mapping of protein-protein interactions in humans, which is termed as functional proteomics. The developments in functional proteomics are particularly timely since pharmaceutical companies are searching for technologies that will strengthen their genomic efforts and prioritize their drug discovery pipeline. In this article we review recent developments in functional proteomics.