Proteomic analysis of the cardiac extracellular matrix: clinical research applications.

INTRODUCTION: The cardiac extracellular matrix (ECM) provides anatomical, biochemical, and physiological support to the left ventricle. ECM proteins are difficult to detect using unbiased proteomic approaches due to solubility issues and a relatively low abundance compared to cytoplasmic and mitochondrial proteins present in highly prevalent cardiomyocytes. Areas covered: Proteomic capabilities have dramatically improved over the past 20 years, due to enhanced sample preparation protocols and increased capabilities in mass spectrometry (MS), database searching, and bioinformatics analysis. This review summarizes technological advancements made in proteomic applications that make ECM proteomics highly feasible. Expert commentary: Proteomic analysis of the ECM provides an important contribution to our understanding of the molecular and cellular processes associated with cardiovascular disease. Using results generated from proteomics approaches in basic science applications and integrating proteomics templates into clinical research protocols will aid in efforts to personalize medicine.