Protein identification system: methods of searching for similar sequences

Recent technological breakthroughs have produced a massive increase in quantitative data on biological macromolecular structures. Scientists are on the threshold of significant advances in the understanding of the molecular basis of biological systems. One can now begin to think in terms of the complete genome and the collection of all proteins synthesized in a living organism. The proteins are the most important metabolic structures that determine the individuality of species and of organisms. Methods for identifying an unknown protein from partial or ambiguous laboratory data are key elements for progress in this area. This paper describes some of the technical aspects of the methods of identification that will be incorporated into an automated, on-line, protein identification system. The accompanying paper discusses some applications of the system.