Phase separation: Bridging polymer physics and biology. (February 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Perry, Sarah L.
• Is Part Of: Current opinion in colloid & interface science. Volume 39(2019)
• Page Start: 86
• Page End: 97
• Publication Date: 2019-02
• Subjects: Coacervation -- Membraneless organelles -- Biomolecular condensates -- Phase separation -- RNP granules -- ATPS -- Compartmentalization -- Biomimicry -- Bioinspiration; Surface chemistry -- Periodicals; Colloids -- Periodicals; 541.33
• DOI: 10.1016/j.cocis.2019.01.007
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1359-0294

Abstract

Abstract: Significant parallels exist between the phase separation behavior of polymers in solution and the types of biomolecular condensates, or 'membraneless organelles, ' that are of increasing interest in living systems. Liquid–liquid phase separation allows for compartmentalization and the sequestration of materials and can be harnessed as a sensitive strategy for responding to small changes in the environment. Here, I review many of the parallels and synergies between ongoing efforts to study and take advantage of phase separation in living versus synthetic materials. Graphical abstract: Image 1 Highlights: Compartmentalization and reaction control can be achieved by phase separation. Phase separation allows for dramatic response to a signal or environmental trigger. Parallels exist between phase-separated materials in living and in synthetic systems. The liquid versus solid nature of the phase-separated material is dictated by the strength of the interactions. Material design is complicated by the diversity of possible interaction motifs.