Metabolism has a central role in cellular and organismal growth, survival and development. Imbalances in metabolic pathways have also been linked to diseases such as cancer and obesity. The importance of metabolism in human health and disease is underscored by the extensive research efforts focused on understanding the physiological and pathophysiological natures of cellular metabolic networks.

Throughout 2015, Nature Cell Biology will present a series of Reviews that highlight emerging themes in this diverse, exciting field. We begin the series this month with a Review by Riera and Dillin that discusses how nutrient availability affects longevity, with a focus on how alternations in mitochondrial function could underpin metabolic disorders. Next month will bring a Review by Boroughs and DeBerardinis that provides insight into the connection between metabolic changes and cancer cell growth. This Review will also highlight mechanisms of 'metabolic flexibility' that enable cancer cells to thrive in nutrient-poor conditions.

Reviews appearing in future issues of the journal will likewise address fundamental subjects in metabolism. These Reviews will provide insight into the relationship between white adipose tissue and thermogenic brown adipose tissue, investigate how stress stimuli alter metabolic pathways, and explore how lysosomes — the central degradative organelle in mammals — sense and effect changes in nutrient status and metabolic pathways. Together, the Reviews in this series will turn a spotlight on new and emerging areas in this broad field.

Later this year, the Reviews will be hosted on a dedicated page of the Nature Cell Biology website, and will be accompanied by an online library presenting specially selected research papers and reviews from Nature Cell Biology and other Nature journals. We thank our authors and referees for their contributions, and hope you share our excitement and enthusiasm for this series on metabolism.