Species identification rates of proteins and target proteins of cowhide glue by FragPipe (FP) and Proteome Discoverer (PD), two widely used proteomics software packages. [Photo/en.xmu.edu.cn]

The Conservation Science Laboratory at Xiamen University's (XMU) School of History and Cultural Heritage achieved a significant breakthrough in approaches to proteomic information mining for proteinaceous binders in painted artifacts.

The team's study, titled "Comparative analysis and optimization of proteomic information mining approaches for proteinaceous binders in painted artifacts", was published in the international journal npj Heritage Science.

This journal holds a Q1 ranking in the Chinese Academy of Sciences Journal Ranking (CAS Journal Ranking) and is indexed in both A&HCI and SCI.

The research addresses key challenges in the proteomic identification of proteinaceous binders, such as aging and external contamination, which introduce uncertainties in recognition.

The team developed a reusable evaluation system to assess retrieval efficiency, clarifying the applicability and complementary advantages of different analytical workflows. They also proposed optimized retrieval strategies tailored to scenarios that relate to cultural heritage.

This methodological advancement provides robust support for the reliable interpretation and standardization of proteomic evidence in cultural heritage conservation.

It is expected to enhance the reliability and comprehensiveness of evidence in the restoration of painting techniques and inform scientific conservation decision-making.

The first author of the paper is Xiamen University's doctoral student Jin Dong, with Associate Professor Zhu Zhanyun as the corresponding author. Other contributors include Li Xiaoxi, Zhou Ping, Lan Desheng and Huang Jianhua from Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum.