Mass spectrometry (MS) is an analytical technique for molecular identification and characterization, with applications spanning various scientific disciplines. Despite its significance, MS faces challenges in widespread adoption due to cost constraints, instrument portability issues, and complex sample handling requirements. In recent years, 3D printing has emerged as a technology across industries due to its cost-effectiveness, customization capabilities, and rapid prototyping features. This review explores the integration of 3D printing with MS technology to overcome existing limitations and enhance biomedical analysis capabilities. We first categorize mainstream 3D printing methods and assess their potential in MS applications. We also discuss their roles in different MS categories such as liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LCMS), gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GCMS), ambient ionization mass spectrometry (AIMS), and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization MS (MALDI MS) in biomedical research. Additionally, we highlight the current challenges and future research directions for advancing 3D printing-assisted mass spectrometry, emphasizing its role in enabling portable, cost-effective, and customized MS solutions for biomedical analysis.

In a paper published in Molecular Biomedicine, researchers Xia Peng and Juan Du present a comprehensive review of lysine lactylation (Kla), a post-translational modification discovered in 2019. The study highlights Kla's role in linking cellular metabolism to epigenetic and signaling pathways by transferring a lactyl moiety to lysine residues, regulated by enzymes (writers/erasers) and metabolites like lactate, affecting both histone (e.g., H3K18la, H4K12la) and non-histone proteins (e.g., AARS1, ACSS2). In the review, the authors also elaborate on the mechanisms by which aberrant Kla triggers multiple disease processes. Meanwhile, the authors introduce the potential target sites of Kla.

This article explores a new therapeutic approach for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) using a combination of triptolide and medicarpin. Recent research published in Engineering reveals that targeting the m⁶A methylation pathway can significantly reduce bone destruction associated with RA. The study demonstrates that the combined use of triptolide and medicarpin effectively inhibits osteoclastogenesis and modulates inflammation, offering a potential strategy to improve treatment outcomes and minimize side effects in RA patients.

This article introduces a new methodology for predicting the service life of concrete structures in marine environments, published in Engineering. Researchers from Southeast University have developed a multiscale modeling approach combined with extensive data analysis to efficiently assess the durability of marine concrete structures. By leveraging numerical simulations and real-world datasets, the study offers a more efficient alternative to traditional long-term exposure testing, providing valuable insights for the design and maintenance of concrete structures in marine conditions.

This article explores the potential for Africa to develop its soybean industry and contribute to global trade. It highlights how recent advancements in breeding and technology, along with China–Africa STI partnerships, could help Africa overcome historical challenges in soybean cultivation and tap into the growing demand from China. The piece also examines the socio-economic benefits and environmental considerations of expanding soybean production on the continent.

In the latest issue of Engineering, researchers from Donghua University and the University of British Columbia present a new design methodology for 3D rotary braiding machines. This innovative approach, based on an average cutting circle strategy, allows for the creation of complex geometric textile composites with enhanced flexibility and precision. The study details how varying the number of incisions on horn gears and combining different cut-circles can significantly expand the capabilities of 3D braiding technology. The findings offer a practical solution for producing intricate 3D braided structures, with potential applications in aerospace, automotive, medical, and emerging fields like nanogenerators and sensors.