Two-dimensional electrophoresis of proteins has preceded, and accompanied,
the birth of proteomics. Although it is no longer the only experimental scheme
used in modern proteomics, it still has distinct features and advantages. The
purpose of this tutorial paper is to guide the reader through the history of
the field, then through the main steps of the process, from sample preparation
to in-gel detection of proteins, commenting the constraints and caveats of the
technique. Then the limitations and positive features of two-dimensional
electrophoresis are discussed (e.g. its unique ability to separate complete
proteins and its easy interfacing with immunoblotting techniques), so that the
optimal type of applications of this technique in current and future proteomics
can be perceived. This is illustrated by a detailed example taken from the
literature and commented in detail. This Tutorial is part of the International
Proteomics Tutorial Programme (IPTP 2)