Protein mapping in rat basophilic leukaemia cells

This review discusses some of our recent studies on rat basophilic leukaemia (RBL) cells, a model cell line for mast cell function. Our interest in these cells is a consequence of the role played by mast cells in the allergic response. Thus far we have described the identification of several spots, and their pI/M(r) co-ordinates. Here we describe how we can further decipher the mast cell proteome using a variety of staining/immuno-blotting procedures. We demonstrate the sensitivity of staining procedures and immuno-blotting using an anti-phosphotyrosine antibody. Our aim is to contribute to the ever-expanding two-dimensional gel and phosphoprotein databases currently available.