Yes, we did expect that and so it came as no big surprise. Of course, we are delighted to see that our expectation was correct and we are very pleased with the results we have achieved, which is currently an Impact Factor of 5.766.

  How would you account for the increased citation rate of PROTEOMICS?

Proteomics is a relatively new field which was developed to create a link between genomic information and biological function through global studies of protein expression. We saw that no existing journal was covering this field, which brings together technological developments in protein separation, protein identification, protein characterization, and bioinformatics, as well as their applications in all areas of the life sciences. In 2001 we established the journal to fulfill the need in this area, and to cover both aspects, the techniques and their applications. The increased citation rate of PROTEOMICS reflects the quality of the published papers and the increased target group in both academia and the biopharmaceutical companies.

  Was there a change in policy or editorial direction that might account for this?

In addition to publishing regular research articles (full-length papers and short communications), we have increased the value of the journal to the readership by publishing technical briefs, which describe the development of a novel method or an improvement or noteworthy modification of an already existing technique or platform used in proteomic analysis. In addition, review articles which cover important areas of proteomics technologies and applications are an important part of the journal. Recently we have instigated a new category of scientific contribution, the viewpoint articles, which are intended to stimulate discussion and debate on areas of general concern and controversy in the field of proteomics, and will generally reflect the personal opinions of the author(s). Also, an important aspect of our strategy has been to devote special issues of the journal to a collection of papers addressing specific topics or hot areas in the field, and these issues form an important reference source for our readers. Finally, we publish proceedings issues of the major international proteomics meetings, including the Siena conference, The Proteomics Forum, and HUPO workshops and initiatives.

  Have there been specific developments in the fields served by PROTEOMICS that may have contributed?

The general trends are outlined in our previous answer. Further to this, and in particular, the increasing interest in proteomics worldwide which has led to substantial governmental investments in various countries, has definitely had an additional significant impact.

  What, in your view, is this journal's main significance or contribution in the field of Molecular Biology & Genetics?

PROTEOMICS is the premier international source for information on all aspects of applications and technologies in proteomics. It is our mission to integrate the various areas of this rapidly developing field which are having a major impact in all areas of the life sciences and industry. We welcome papers describing novel applications of proteomics. Topics include whole-proteome analysis of any organism, expression profiling, disease studies, pharmaceutical, agricultural, and biotechnological applications, and analysis of cellular systems, organelles, and protein complexes. Technological topics covered include new or improved separation techniques, methods of protein identification and characterization including the analysis of post-translational modifications, transcriptomics, and bioinformatics. Starting in 2005, PROTEOMICS will be published in 18 issues per year, including regular issues as well as topical issues or proceedings of international meetings.

  How do you see your field(s) evolving in the next few years?

Until now proteomics has been a technology-driven science. While further technological advances will undoubtedly be important, we believe that the major emphasis will now be on applying these approaches to the understanding of biological function in healthy organisms and in disease. Our publication strategy as described above places us in an ideal situation to serve the needs of the proteomic community.

  What role do you see for your journal?

We will continue to observe and try to foresee the developments in the field so that we can further strengthen our position in the market and play our role as the premier information source in proteomics.