There is an increasing emphasis on using translational research to examine mechanisms and increase our understanding of disease. Translational research involves the use of basic science techniques to generate new treatments for use in a clinical setting - the so called 'bench to bedside' approach. This methodology could be used to enhance our understanding of complex symptoms such as cancer-related fatigue. This review will examine specifically the potential role of the science of protein structure and function (proteomics) as a technique to improve our knowledge in this area. This will include an explanation of the specific methods used in this research in order to increase our understanding of the mechanisms of cancer-related fatigue and discuss potential directions for future research with the development of more targeted therapies.