Proteomics-protein profiling technology: the trend towards a microfabricated toolbox concept

The use of mono-crystalline silicon microstructures for high-speed and high sensitivity protein mapping and protein identification is presented as an important contribution within the field of proteomics. The various approach es for handling minute amounts of protein sample are described. Piezoelectr ic dispensing units developed in-house are being used for sample-handling a nd the generation of 60-pl droplets, interfacing with high-density microchi p MALDI-TOF MS target plates having an array density of 4000 nanovials/squa re inch. Examples of applications to microtechnology, and future trends in our research are outlined. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserv ed.