The government will launch a five-year national research program to analyze the interaction of human proteins as a new scientific goal following the completion of the human genome map in April, science ministry officials said Thursday.
Researchers will study interactions among 20,000 to 30,000 kinds of proteins. Results are expected to contribute to the development of medicine without side effects.
Japan has already been a leader in protein data collection. The latest project is expected to produce better understanding of the mechanics of life, treatment and prevention of illnesses, as well as the manufacture of medicines tailored to individual genetic profiles.