Proteomics in Fish: a Study of Evolutionary Patterns

Background:
At this point in the year our labs have been centered around genetics. We have been studying different DNA samples and analyzing differences between them to view key distinguishing characteristcs. In proteomics we will be studying the proteins developed by species of fish and tracing the similarities of these proteins through an evolutionary tree, to develop a primitive evolutionary diagram.

Proteomics is key in discovering these evolutionary patterns. Proteomics is the study and analysis of all proteins expressed in all cells at every stage of development, though this has been expanded to include proteing function, interactions, locations and expression. Looking at variations in the proteins in different yet relted organisms may yield key information into the role of proteins in evolutionary development.

Purpose:
The purpose of this lab is to better understand how proteins are used and how evolution and the environment shapes the proteins in our bodies. By studying these samples we will gain a better understanding of how proteins change as a species gradually evolves.

Hypothesis:
Though it seems odd to have a hypothesis for this lab, I presume that the fish sample will all be connected by a common ancestor (obviously), and will have many similarities though some will be deviantions resulting in a branch, similar to humans and chimpanzees.

Procedure:
We will be loking at two proteins, Actin and Myosin. Both Actin and Myosin are muscle proteins, and are involved the contraction of chorded muscles. We will be using samples, either brought in or given to us, and we will begin by denatureing the proteins through heating. Following this we will electrophorese the samples in a protein gel, before staining to look and analyse the bands for similarities and differences.

Results/Observations:


Discussion: