Graduate Faculty Research Interests

See also:

• Proteomics Center

As we enter the post-genomic era, one of the next frontiers in biomedical research is the direct study of the proteins coded by the genome called the proteome. Biochemists are poised to lead the next phase of discovery by determining the expression levels of all proteins as well as the structures of biomolecules and their complexes. The student in the structural biology track will obtain a solid foundation in macromolecular structure, biophysical methods, proteomics, and bioinformatics. Specific methods used for structure elucidation at MUSC include X-ray crystallography, nuclear magnetic resonance, and mass spectrometry.

The MUSC Computer-generated molecular model Proteomics Center was established to serve as a focal point for development of proteomics research. Current approaches to proteomic analysis rely upon separation of protein mixtures and analysis by mass spectrometry. The Center recently received NIH grant support for $15 million to establish one of ten Proteomics Centers in the country for cardiovascular proteomics. MUSC also has a major presence in protein mass spectrometry with one of the best equipped facilities in the country.