title: On the outside looking in: redefining the role of analytical chemistry in the biosciences.
abstract: Biomedical research has moved on from the study of the structure of organs, cells and organelles. Today, the key questions that must be addressed to understand the body in health and disease are related to fundamental biochemistry: the distribution and speciation of chemicals, the regulation of chemical reactions, and the control of chemical environments. To see advances in this field, it is essential for analytical chemists to actively engage in this process, from beginning to end. In this Feature Article, we review the progress that has been made towards gaining an understanding of the chemistry of the body, while commenting on the intrinsic disconnect between new innovations in the field of analytical chemistry and practical application within the biosciences. We identify the challenges that prevent chemists from making a greater impact in this field, and highlight key steps for moving forward.
authors.affiliation: Elemental Bio-imaging Facility, University of Technology Sydney, Broadway, New South Wales, Australia. dominic.hare@uts.edu.au and The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.
authors.forename: Dominic J
authors.initials: DJ
authors.lastname: Hare
authors.affiliation: School of Chemistry, The University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. elizabeth.new@sydney.edu.au.
authors.forename: Elizabeth J
authors.initials: EJ
authors.lastname: New
mesh_terms: D035843:Biomedical Research; D002623:Chemistry Techniques, Analytical; D006801:Humans