The success of the projects to determine the complete genomes has created a strong momentum in the quest for obtaining other 'complete' molecular datasets in biology.
| Description | Measurement | Manipulation | Time dependence (first approx.) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Genome | The complete DNA sequence of the genetic material in the organism. |
Routine.
High accuracy and completeness. |
Genetic manipulation; site-directed mutagenesis, genetic screens. | None. |
| Transcriptome | The complete set and levels of mRNA transcripts in a cell or tissue of the organism. |
Routine.
cDNA microarrays, SAGE, Northern blots. Quantification inaccurate. Approximate completeness. |
Indirectly via genetic manipulation. | Reflects the state of gene expression. |
| Proteome | The complete set and levels of proteins in a cell or tissue, including modifications, complexes. |
Not routine.
2D-gels with mass spectrometry. GFP fusions. Y2H. Quantification very difficult. Completeness difficult. |
Indirectly through genetic manipulations. Small molecules as inhibitors of enzymes. | Responsive to all manner of influences throughout the life cycle. |
| Metabolome | All metabolites and their concentrations. Defined as organic small molecules, not protein, RNA or DNA. |
Not routine.
NMR, MS, specific methods. Quantification and resolution difficult. Completeness may be reachable. |
Difficult. | Responsive to all manner of influences throughout the life cycle. |