NMR spectroscopy for mixture analysis – both a blessing and a curse: dissecting cell growth media as an example

Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy is a powerful non-targeted analytical tool for compositional profiling of complex mixtures, such as cell culture media, offering high-throughput capabilities that support rapid assessment across large sample cohorts. Its sensitivity to proton-containing metabolites enables the detection of both expected and unforeseen components. However, its application can evoke a ‘Pandora’s box’ effect, revealing unanticipated complexities that challenge conventio