Detection of biomarkers for alcoholism by two-dimensional differential gel electrophoresis.
BACKGROUND
Up to now, gamma-glutamyltransferase (gamma-GTP) and carbohydrate-deficient transferrin (CDT) have been used as markers for alcoholism most widely, but they are not satisfactory regarding sensitivity/specificity. Therefore, for novel markers need to be searched.


METHODS
To detect new biomarkers for alcoholism, albumin and immunoglobulinG were first removed from serum. Then, protein profiles of 12 serum samples before and after 3 months of abstinence treatment were examined using agarose 2-dimensional differential gel electrophoresis (agarose2-D DIGE). Two-dimensional differential gel electrophoresis images were analyzed using Shimadzu 2-D Evolution Software.


RESULTS
Eight spots whose expression were significantly altered after abstinence were detected. Of these, 2 proteins increased and 6 proteins decreased after treatment.


CONCLUSIONS
Altered expressions of several serum proteins after abstinence therapy were detected. They are promising markers for clinical application of alcoholism.