Abstract
Membrane proteins are key molecules in the cell and are important targets for drug development. Much effort has, therefore, been directed towards research of this group of proteins, but their hydrophobic nature can make working with them challenging. Here we discuss methodologies used in the study of the membrane proteome, specifically discussing approaches that circumvent technical issues specific to the membrane. In addition, we review several techniques used for visualization, qualification, quantitation and localization of membrane proteins. The combination of the techniques we describe holds great promise to allow full characterization of the membrane proteome and to map the dynamic changes within it essential for cellular function.
Financial & competing interests disclosure
The authors have no relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties.
No writing assistance was utilized in the production of this manuscript.