In many ways, molecular cell biologists are like the cells they study — they work around the clock, often with limited resources, and must constantly communicate with their neighbours. As part of a wider community, they also need to know exactly what is happening, where and when. Such all-round awareness is increasingly difficult as the community grows, and with it the amount of information.

How, then, can you most efficiently monitor the significant developments in your field? And where is the time to search for this information? As a first port of call, we're proud to introduce Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology.

But first a short tour, starting with this page. As its name suggests, ‘In this issue’ is intended as a signpost to some of the features inside. It's followed by the ‘Highlights’, a bright and dynamic section that brings to life some of the most exciting research papers from the past month or so. Constantly updated and enhanced online, the Highlights are chosen with the help of an external panel of experts. Next come the Reviews, written by leaders in the field and quality-controlled by thorough peer-review. In the print version of the journal, Reviews are supplemented with glossary explanations in the margin, and online our Reviews are peppered with extra features, such as animations and links to public databases. Finally there are the ‘Perspectives’, which view the field from a slightly different angle — be it historical, ethical or personal. For a more detailed description of these sections, you'll find an online guide to the Nature Reviews journals on our web site, www.nature.com/reviews

Welcome, then, to the first issue of Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology . Our aim is that, like a good cell-culture medium, it will prove an essential and stimulating resource.