Functional Classes Search

Assignment of bacterial proteins to functional categories and subcategories was based on the several publications from TIGR and the sequencing work on Aquifex aeolicus (Deckert et a., Nature 392: 353-358,1998). Obviously the assignments presuppose accuracy of gene prediction. When multiple categories of function are involved, as frequently can be the case, two or more classifications are provided with the most significant (when that can be decided) listed first. Following the lead of Deckert et al., three broad categories are recognized -- identifiable, unknown and hypothetical. Hence so-called "conserved hypothetical proteins" may be deemed unknown in function. Also, identifiable proteins are classified as uncharacterized when their exact roles are uncertain.

The classification used for viral genes is empirical and recognizes that many viral proteins are known to be multifunctional. As knowledge increases about these proteins these categories will evolve and improve. Corrections or additions to these classification schemes are welcome.

Click on a category below, to see all proteins assigned to that category in the sequenced organism. For an alternative compilation of protein functions, which examines relatedness of functions, see the Metabolic Pathways section of this database. A table of EC numbers is also provided.