The UNAM contributes to the identification of proteins encoded by the human genome
The international initiative Human Proteome Project, which aims to identify, characterize, and localize the proteins encoded by the human genome, has made significant progress, with 93.5% of the proteins identified. The UNAM is actively participating in this initiative through the Chromosome Centric Human Proteome Project (C-HPP).
Over the course of 12 years, scientists collaborating on this initiative have identified 25% of the total proteins, increasing the number from 13,588 to 18,467. This achievement is significant as it provides valuable insight into the behavior and modifications of these proteins.
Sergio Manuel Encarnación Guevara, founder and head of the Proteomics Laboratory of the Center for Genomic Sciences (CCG) of the UNAM, highlighted the importance of this project. He stated that in addition to knowing how these proteins are expressed, it is also crucial to understand their behavior and modifications.
The C-HPP of the HUPO is comprised of 25 groups and more than 400 scientists from 20 countries, with the mission to study each of the 24 human chromosomes and the mitochondrial genome, focusing on identifying and assigning function to the proteins or gene products.
The goal of the project is to find rigorous evidence for all proteins encoded by the human genome. The project, which began in 2011 and is scheduled to conclude in 2028, is a collaborative effort to identify and assign functions to the proteins of the human genome.
Mexican scientists, along with colleagues from Canada, the United States, and Brazil, have been focusing on identifying and assigning functions to the proteins of chromosome 19. The Mexican consortium has made significant contributions to the project, reducing the percentage of unidentified proteins from 16.6% to 5.5%.
The remaining challenge is to locate proteins that are increasingly difficult to find, especially in poorly studied conditions, such as in rare diseases. However, the UNAM remains committed to making valuable contributions to this international initiative.