a. Background
This lab focuses on the use of Proteomics to determine the evolution of certain organisms. The Study of evolution includes both genomics and proteomics. Genomics is the study of genes and genomes, and proteomics is the study of proteins. Proteomics is specifically focused on studying the structures and functions of proteins, as well as inclyuding the study of protein functions, protein-protein interactions, cellular locations, expression levels, and posttranslational modification of proteins. Charles Darwin created the "Theory of Natural Selection". This theory states that there are more organisms brought into the environment than can be supported by the environment. Organisms engage in survival of the fittest.
b. Purpose
In this lab, we are attempting to compare fish and determine which are more similar to eachother. We will take a sample of their muscle tissue and compare them through gel electrophoresis. According to proteomics, the more similar the bands are from gel electrophoresis, the more related the organisms are to eachother.
c. Process
First, we will grind up and denature the muscle proteins, Actin and Myosin. Then, we will run the samples on argarose gel. The results will let us know which fish and other organisms are more similar to eachother and related.
d. Hypothesis
