ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the identification and the characterization of novel proteins. It identifies four novel proteins in chipmunks which were markedly reduced in the blood during hibernation. Three of these proteins HP-20, 25 and 27 contain a similar structure including a collagen-like domain, indicating that these are a family of proteins. Another protein HP-55 is a previously unknown member of the serpin superfamily. Analysis of plasma from these hibernating and nonhibernating animals using gel permeation chromatography and SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis revealed four plasma proteins that were reduced markedly or that disappeared in hibernating animals. Polyclonal antibody to HP-20s was developed in rabbits using the HP-20s complex from the chipmunk plasma. Levels of these proteins were once again elevated when hibernation ceased. Such a relationship between hibernation and protein levels have been observed over a 5 year period from November, 1987.
