Purpose of review
Peer review helps editors evaluate scientific validity, relevance, clarity and contribution. It also gives authors informed feedback that can strengthen a manuscript.
Reviewer responsibilities
Reviewers should assess work within their expertise, disclose conflicts, protect confidential material, avoid personal criticism and provide comments supported by scientific reasoning.
Editorial responsibility
Review recommendations inform but do not replace editorial judgment. Editors consider the manuscript, reviewer evidence, author responses and journal standards when reaching decisions.