Proteomics: a promising approach to study biotic interaction in legumes. A review

During the 1990s and early 2000s, the genomes of different organisms have been completely sequenced. Nowadays, biological research is directed to understand gene expression and function. Proteomics, understood as protein biochemistry on an unprecedented and high-throughput scale, is becoming a promising and active approach in this post-genomic period. However, its application to plants is still rather limited as compared to other biological systems. After having referred to the most recent plant proteomic reviews, we focused on legume proteomics including studies with the model species Medicago truncatula. This review is aimed at providing to non-proteomic specialists a global overview of what might be expected in entering this field.