Protein research. Gloved hand of a researcher preparing a two-dimensional (2-D) gel for the analysis of proteins. This is being done during proteomics research. Proteomics is the determina- tion of the structure and function of all the proteins in the body. In a 2-D gel, protein samples are separated by their charge as well as their mass. Individual samples can then be removed from the gel and their structures revealed by X- ray crystallography. Proteins are the body's major structural molecules, and also form the enzymes that regulate the body's biochemical reactions. Proteomics research will allow a greater understanding of how the body works.