Proteomic biosignatures for monocyte–macrophage differentiation

We used pulsed stable isotope labeling of amino acids in cell culture (pSILAC) to assess protein dynamics during monocyte–macrophage differentiation. pSILAC allows metabolic labeling of newly synthesized proteins. Such de novo protein production was evaluated from 3 to 7 days in culture. Proteins were identified by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry then quantified by MaxQuant. Protein–protein linkages were then assessed by Ingenuity Pathway Analysis. Proteins identified were linked to cell homeostasis, free radical scavenging, molecular protein transport, carbohydrate metabolism, small molecule chemistry, and cell morphology. The data demonstrates specific biologic events that are linked to monocyte transformation in a defined biologic system.

► Proteomic assays predict monocyte–macrophage differentiation.
► Cell differentiation defined through cell homeostasis and scavenging proteins.
► pSILAC measures de novo protein synthesis in monocytes and differentiating macrophages.