Genomic and Proteomic Analysis

Over the past decade, several organisms’ genomes have been sequenced, including the human genome. These genomic databases are now routinely used in drug discovery and development. While the genomic databases are clearly an advance, this is not the complete picture since the genes that are expressed by an organism vary from cell type to cell type. Even within a given cell, the protein expression will change in response to a variety of factors (e.g., the environment). The study of protein expression, structure, and function is termed proteomics. Integral to both proteomics and genomics is the management and utilization of large data sets. Lonnie Welch, Stuckey Professor of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, and his team are developing custom integrated software to expedite proteomics and genomics research. Welch works with John Kopchick, Goll Ohio Eminent Scholar and professor of molecular biology, and his group to identify new therapeutic targets for endocrine diseases, especially those involved with growth disorders and diabetes. In a separate project, Welch and his team are working with Sarah Wyatt, associate professor of environmental and plant biology, and her group, who use genomics to study plant responses to environmental stimuli. Such work has an impact on the use of plants as a source of medicinals.