The
Human Protein Reference Database (HPRD) is a comprehensive resource that provides detailed information about the various proteins in the human body. This database includes data on protein-protein interactions, post-translational modifications, and protein functions. It serves as a valuable tool for researchers looking to explore the complexities of human proteins and their roles in various biological processes.
Cancer is fundamentally a disease of the genome, and proteins play a crucial role in the regulation of cellular functions. The HPRD offers extensive data on proteins that are often implicated in cancer, including those involved in cell cycle regulation, apoptosis, and signal transduction pathways. By using this database, researchers can identify potential
biomarkers and therapeutic targets, thereby accelerating the development of
cancer treatments.
The HPRD provides a wide range of data types, including:
- Protein-Protein Interactions: Information about how proteins interact with each other, which is crucial for understanding signal transduction pathways involved in cancer.
- Post-Translational Modifications: Details about modifications like phosphorylation, ubiquitination, and glycosylation, which can affect protein function and are often altered in cancer.
- Subcellular Localization: Data on where proteins are located within the cell, which can offer insights into their functional roles.
- Disease Associations: Information about proteins that are associated with various diseases, including different types of cancer.
Biomarkers are biological molecules that indicate the presence or progression of a disease. The HPRD includes data on proteins that are differentially expressed in cancers, making it easier for researchers to identify potential biomarkers. For instance, the database can help in discovering
oncogenes and
tumor suppressors, which are critical in cancer diagnosis and prognosis.
One of the unique features of HPRD is its manual curation process. Scientists meticulously review published literature to ensure the accuracy of the data. This level of detail and reliability makes it a preferred choice for cancer researchers. The database also integrates information from other resources, providing a more comprehensive overview of protein functions and interactions.
The HPRD is freely accessible to the public. Researchers can search for specific proteins using various criteria such as name, function, or disease association. The user-friendly interface allows for easy navigation, making it simple to find relevant data quickly. Additionally, the database includes tools for visualizing protein interaction networks, which can be particularly useful in cancer research.
While the HPRD is a valuable resource, it is not without limitations. The database may not include the most recent discoveries, as manual curation can be time-consuming. Additionally, the focus is primarily on well-studied proteins, which means that less-characterized proteins may not be well-represented. Despite these limitations, the HPRD remains a crucial tool for cancer research.
Future Directions and Updates
The field of cancer research is constantly evolving, and the HPRD continues to update its database to include new findings. Future directions may involve incorporating more data on protein isoforms, exploring non-coding RNAs, and integrating genomic data to provide a more holistic view of protein functions in cancer.
In conclusion, the Human Protein Reference Database is an indispensable resource for cancer researchers. It provides comprehensive, curated data on human proteins, aiding in the identification of biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Despite some limitations, its detailed information and ease of access make it a critical tool in the ongoing battle against cancer.
