Sequencing of proteins from two-dimensional gels by using in situ digestion and transfer of peptides to polyvinylidene difluoride membranes: application to proteins associated with sensitization in Aplysia.

We have developed a method for obtaining partial internal amino acid sequence data from proteins isolated directly from preparative two-dimensional polyacrylamide gels. Proteins from a crude cell homogenate are separated using preparative two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Then, the gel is stained with Coomassie blue and the protein spots of interest are cut out. The in situ protein is digested with Staphylococcus aureus V8 protease in a second polyacrylamide gel and the peptides are separated by one-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The peptides are then electroblotted onto a polyvinylidene difluoride membrane, visualized using Coomassie blue, cut out, and sequenced using an automated gas phase sequencer. Using this method, we have obtained amino acid sequence data for two proteins that are altered after long-term sensitization: actin and Aplysia protein 407. In addition, we have obtained amino acid sequence data for rat protein 425, a protein that appears to be homologous to Aplysia protein 407.