Predicted Protein Network

A Predicted Protein Network is a systems biology construct that maps the functional and physical interactions between a set of proteins, rather than representing a single therapeutic target molecule (Szklarczyk et al., 2023). These networks are generated by integrating diverse data sources, including experimental protein-protein interaction (PPI) data, gene co-expression patterns, and computational predictions based on genomic context and evolutionary conservation (Barabási et al., 2011). In drug discovery, these networks are utilized to identify critical nodes or pathways that drive disease progression, particularly in complex conditions like cancer and neurodegeneration (NIH). However, because a Predicted Protein Network represents an aggregate of many different proteins and their relationships, it does not constitute a specific, druggable receptor, enzyme, or transporter. Targeting an entire network is conceptually different from targeting a single molecule; it involves polypharmacology or the modulation of network topology to achieve a therapeutic effect. Consequently, this entry is classified as incorrect for a single target molecule, as it describes a broad biological framework rather than a discrete pharmacological entity.

Other names

Protein-protein interaction networkPPI networkFunctional association networkInteractomeBiological network

Not applicable