About this Research Topic
From Joseph John Thomson to John Bennet Fenn, from Robert Graham Cooks to Matthias Mann, the mass spectrometry field has evolved as a science, as well as a cutting-edge tool to nowadays scientists. From innovative techniques and Physics and Chemistry Nobel prizes it has become the most widespread and versatile tool in large scale Proteomics, with scientific insertion from Petroleomics into its most comprehensive application: Health Science, specially in biomedical applications, such as Clinical Proteomics. Since the enlightened vision of Thomson’s application in Chemistry, mass spectrometry has encountered its visionary way in applied fields. In Translational Medicine, mass spectrometry is being used as a complementary tool to evaluate conditions at orthotopic transplants; in Oncology, to assist in clinical diagnostics in cancer surgeries (as DESI and iKnife techniques). It is also used to provide a better and wider understanding on histopathological studies (at molecular levels); as well as in Physiology and Nutrology comprehensive research, enhancing Nutriproteomics and Neuroproteomics areas. In Pharmaceutical Science, regarding cancer prospection of biocompounds, mass spectrometry has a keen development in its methods, from bioprospection of antitumoral active products to validation of therapeutical targets, widely use in de novo drug research, leveraging this area to a tailor-made Medicine. Regarding drug monitoring the Forensic Toxicomics as an improving area in the usage of mass spectrometry to solve criminal questions is a reality in many forensic centers around the world. High sensitivity, specificity and its capability to provide faster results and rapid clinical feedback, place mass spectrometry as one the most powerful tools in Science. Its relevancy in life research analysis, and specially, as an undoubtful potential use to guide immediate medical decisions is presented in these series of opinions and reviews within this Research Topic.
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