High-resolution and tandem mass spectrometry--the indispensable tools of the XXI century

Abstract

Mass spectrometry-based qualitative and quantitative (bio)molecular analysis is a corner stone in the state-of-the-art pipelines in systems biology and environmental sciences. High-resolution and efficient tandem mass spectrometry methods and techniques are the essential analytical capabilities for the in-depth analysis of extremely complex mixtures of (bio)molecules of a very broad dynamic range of concentrations. Here, we briefly review the advantages and limitations of the current mass spectrometry with a focus on resolution, or resolving power, and methods of (bio)molecular fragmentation in the gas phase. We conclude with an outlook that considers possible avenues for further mass spectrometry-based method and technique development, indispensable for advancing the challenging real-life mass spectrometry applications in the XXI century.