[gdpawel]

Anyone familiar with cellular biology knows that having the genetic sequence of a known gene (genotype) does not equate to having the disease state (phenotype) represented by that gene. It requires specific cellular triggers and specialized cellular mechanisms to literally translate the code into the work horse of the cellular world - proteins.

As a result, while genomics provides a methodology to understand the sheet music of life, there is more interest in the proteomic symphony that results by literally bringing the dead notes to life. Since the actual performance of the sheet music can vary, based on the whims of the composer, there is the individual variation or free-lancing of the orchestral performers.

So while the sheet music is absolutely essential to even contemplate a symphonic performance, no one goes to listen to the sheet music. It is the individual performances, the living-breathing-audible-panoramic-splended-view of the whole chamber coming to life that ultimately stirs the soul.

In an analogous fashion, the proteins are the cellular accessories that literally add life to an otherwise staid genetic makeup. Infinitely more variable, infinitely more possibilities, and as a result, infinitely more interesting. - Scott L. Shreeve, M.D.