International proteomics technology and research company Proteome Systems (ASX:PSX) has signed a agreement with life-science research systems company Agilent Technologies (NYSE: A) to develop and market an integrated technology package for glycomics, the analysis of glycosylated proteins.

Glycoproteins -- proteins whose basic peptide structure has been modified by the addition of sugar molecules -- are throwing new light on the etiology of diseases as diverse aas cancer, arthritis and influenza.

Proteome Systems' contribution to the marketing package is its propriety GlycomIQ informatics software, kits and consumables , a comprehensive platform for analysing protein-associated glycans - polysaccharides that affect the properties of proteins. Agilent will contribute its XCT, XCT Plus and XCT Ultra ion-trap mass spectrometers.

Dr Nicolle Packer, executive VP and head of glycoproteomics with Proteome Systems, said that, until now, glycomics has been the preserve of specialised laboratories.

"The combination of Agilent's robust, sensitive MS technology with our cutting-edge, automated glycomics system creates a powerful integrated solution that will streamline the study of glycoproteins," Packer said.

Agilent and Proteome Systems expect to begin marketing their technology package in the northern hemisphere summer.