Methods for high-throughput glycoproteomics analysis

The main aim of the HTP-GlycoMet proposal is to develop technologies, which will enable high-throughput analysis of glycosylation of individual proteins from body fluids and cell membranes and apply them to understand some key processes in immunity and infections. Glycan analysis is extremely demanding from both technological and conceptual aspect and (beside one study performed by partners in this proposal) large-scale studies of glycosylation of individual proteins were not attempted previously. However, we are confident that by successfully combining complementary expertise in the (i) production of specialised monolithic chromatographic tools for high-throughput fractionation of complex biological fluids (BIA-SEP), (ii) purification of proteins from body fluids and membrane proteins (UNI-RI), (iii) high-throughput glycomic analysis by use of chromatography (Genos) and multiplexed capillary gel electrophoresis (MPI) and (iv) expertise in the field of viral immunology (MEDRI) we can achieve significant progress in this direction. All our partners are recognized leaders who already made significant progress beyond the state of the art in their respective fields. Through HTP-GlycoMet project we will organise secondments on all levels (MER, ER, ESR) to capitalize on synergistic effects of this interdisciplinary and transnational collaboration. In addition to the generation of new knowledge and the development of new innovative technologies, we will also achieve significant transfer of knowhow between academic and industrial partners. Our SME partners also expect to develop new lines of products and services through the HTP-GlycoMet programme, but also through future collaboration with HTP-GlycoMet partners beyond the lifetime of this project.