FEBS Journal is an international journal devoted to the rapid publication of full-length papers describing original research in all areas of the molecular life sciences, as outlined further below. Preference is given to papers that advance new concepts or develop new experimental techniques. Papers should be clearly written for a general audience in a way that draws attention to their novelty and significance; work that is incomplete, inconclusive or merely confirmatory will not be published. FEBS Journal also publishes reviews and minireviews on a wide range of topics, which may be solicited or submitted, and meeting reports. FEBS Journal is published on behalf of the Federation of European Biochemical Societies by Blackwell Publishing.