The Technological and Renewable Energy Institute (ITER), through its Genomics Area, has implemented an innovative protocol for the simultaneous analysis of 1,034 proteins. This methodology, based on the Olink Reveal platform and PEA (Proximity Extension Assay) technology, allows for high-dimensionality proteomic profiles from reduced sample volumes, leveraging the existing massive sequencing infrastructure in its laboratories.
The assay works using a pair of specific antibodies for each protein. When both antibodies recognize their target, the DNA oligonucleotides attached to them come into proximity, hybridize, and generate a specific DNA sequence. This molecular signal is amplified and quantified via next-generation sequencing, allowing for the estimation of each protein's relative abundance. The system combines the specificity of immunoassays with the sensitivity and scalability of massive sequencing technologies.
The Genomics Area of ITER has obtained certification from Olink in Uppsala after successfully passing the 'concordance test', verifying the analytical performance of the laboratory against the company's technical standards.
This technology has key applications in identifying disease-associated biomarkers. Comparing proteomic profiles between different groups of individuals can reveal proteins or patterns related to the presence, mechanisms, severity, or clinical manifestations of a disease. It also facilitates the development of biomarkers for early detection, differential diagnosis, and patient stratification.
Furthermore, analyzing samples over time allows for the investigation of changes associated with disease progression, evaluation of its evolution, and study of prognostic markers. The technology is useful for assessing treatment response, identifying resistance, risk of relapse, or adverse effects, particularly in Precision Personalized Medicine.
The platform also enables the identification of new therapeutic targets, the study of inflammatory, immune, metabolic, and cardiovascular processes, the characterization of molecular heterogeneity, the evaluation of pharmacodynamic and toxicity biomarkers, and support for clinical trial design.
The generated data can be integrated with genomic, clinical, and epidemiological information in multi-omics and proteogenomic studies to better understand the relationship between genetic variation, biological processes, and observed clinical characteristics.
The incorporation of this protocol expands ITER's capabilities beyond DNA analysis, allowing for a more comprehensive approach to biomedical research.
The implementation was made possible through co-financing from the Island Department of Research, Innovation, and Development of the Cabildo de Tenerife, via the Master Plan for Innovation of the island of Tenerife, for the period 2025–first half of 2026.
