Proteomics advancements in fetomaternal medicine

The study of interactions between genes and their environment, thus of molecules that form the “functional genome”, has been greatly enhanced throughout the course of post-genomic era by the expansion of the omic technologies. Proteomic technologies and mass spectrometry in particular, form a well-armored strategy towards high-throughput simultaneous analysis of thousands of proteins and protein-related molecules. Proteomics as in the past, are still currently offering novel perspectives in the understanding over the pathophysiology of malicious conditions as well as in the development of molecular-targeted therapeutics against them. This review examines the offerings of proteomics research over the unique physiological phenomenon of pregnancy and its related complications, which affect both maternal and perinatal health.

► Major mass spectrometric methods currently used in proteomic analyses are discussed. ► The application of proteomics in fetomaternal medicine is summarized. ► Pregnancy-related biological materials used for proteomic analyses are discussed. ► Available biomarkers for diagnosis of pregnancy-related complications are presented. ► The potential of proteomics for the non-invasive prenatal diagnosis is presented.