Accelerating science in mass spectrometry

Editor's foreword

Mass spectrometry stands at the heart of scientific innovation, enabling researchers to explore the molecular world with unprecedented clarity, speed, and precision. As global challenges evolve, from the urgent need to detect elusive environmental contaminants to the complex demands of modern drug discovery, mass spectrometry continues to transform how science accelerates progress and impacts lives.

This Accelerating Science Feature showcases the latest advances and real-world applications of mass spectrometry across two critical frontiers. On one side, scientists are decoding the chemical fingerprints of emerging contaminants such as PFAS, pesticides, and pharmaceuticals in water, soil, air, and biological samples. High-resolution mass spectrometry and novel analytical workflows are empowering environmental monitoring and public health protection by identifying pollutants at trace levels once thought undetectable.

On the other, mass spectrometry is driving breakthroughs in drug discovery and translational medicine. Cutting-edge technologies including high-resolution instruments, ion mobility spectrometry, and AI-enhanced data analysis accelerate target identification, biomarker discovery, and therapeutic development. These tools help scientists move faster from molecules to medicines, improving the speed, accuracy, and efficiency of research pipelines that ultimately deliver new treatments to patients.

Together, with these stories and innovations we have formed a dynamic platform where you can explore the latest breakthroughs in mass spectrometry and companion technologies across diverse scientific fields. See how your peers are applying these powerful tools to push boundaries, overcome challenges, and accelerate discovery. We invite you to join this vibrant community of researchers driving real-world impact and shaping the future of analytical science.