LC-MS/MS: a powerful tool for modern analytical science: Fundamentals, techniques, applications and innovations

Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) has emerged as a powerful analytical technique in clinical laboratories, offering exceptional sensitivity, specificity, and the ability to detect multiple analytes simultaneously. Its application spans various fields, including chemistry aspects and pharmaceutical analysis, where precise quantification of small molecules is critical. The growing availability of standardized reagent kits is expected to drive wider adoption, reducing the need for extensive method development. As clinical laboratories increasingly rely on LC-MS/MS for protein and biomarker analysis, its role in modern diagnostics continues to expand. Despite challenges like complex instrumentation and method validation, LC-MS/MS remains a valuable tool for improving accuracy and reliability in clinical and research applications. This review explores the fundamental principles, methodologies, and advancements of LC-MS/MS, highlighting its integration with sample preparation techniques to enhance analytical performance.