Protein Microarrays: Analytical and Functional Applications in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Protein microarrays, as a significant tool in proteomics, were categorized into analytical and functional types, with applications in protein expression monitoring, biomarker identification, and studying protein interactions. They were particularly useful in identifying autoantigens in diseases like alopecia areata and distinguishing immune responses in SARS-infected individuals with high sensitivity and specificity. The technology demonstrated femtomolar sensitivity and was more sensitive than traditional assays, highlighting its potential in diagnostics and high-throughput biology, although its future growth depended on advancements in producing high-quality proteins and antibodies.