The Nature Reviews Disease Primers editorial team commissions top researchers — comprising basic scientists and clinical researchers — to write the Primers, which are designed for use by early career researchers, medical students and principal investigators. In each Primer readers can expect sections on epidemiology; mechanisms and pathophysiology; diagnosis, screening and prevention; management; and patient quality of life. The Primers are forward-looking, always ending with an Outlook section that outlines unanswered questions and the anticipated research trajectory over the next several years. They are carefully edited and contain figures drawn by our in-house art editors, making them an essential resource for teaching and learning. We'll bring you a new topic to explore each week so come back often!