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Photoswitchable single-stranded DNA-peptide coacervate formation as a dynamic system for reaction control
Wen Ann Wee1, Hiroshi Sugiyama1,2, Soyoung Park1
1Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Kyoto University, Sakyo, Kyoto 606-8502, Japan.
Iscience
|December 8, 2021
Summary
Researchers developed a light-controlled system for forming and disassembling membraneless organelles using polylysine and DNA. This photoswitchable droplet formation regulates biochemical reactions, offering a versatile model for dynamic cellular processes.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
- Cellular Organization and Dynamics
- Supramolecular Chemistry
Background:
- Cellular processes rely on spatial segregation, often mediated by membraneless organelles.
- Membraneless organelles form and dissolve dynamically through liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS).
- Controlling LLPS offers a route to regulate cellular biochemistry.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a light-controllable system for the formation and disassembly of liquid droplets.
- To investigate the application of this system in regulating chemical reactions.
- To establish a versatile model for dynamic control over reactions via LLPS.
Main Methods:
- Formation and disassembly of liquid droplets using a complex of polylysine (pLys) and arylazopyrazole (AAP)-conjugated single-stranded DNA.
- Utilizing photoswitchable properties of AAP for light-induced droplet control.
- Monitoring the effect of droplet formation and disassembly on imine formation and DNAzyme-catalyzed oxidation reactions.
Main Results:
- Successfully demonstrated light-controlled formation and disassembly of polylysine-DNA liquid droplets.
- Showcased photoswitchability of droplet formation for regulating chemical reactions.
- Observed accelerated imine formation and DNAzyme activity within droplets, with reversal upon disassembly.
Conclusions:
- The developed photoswitchable droplet system provides precise, light-based control over LLPS.
- This system serves as a versatile platform for regulating biochemical reactions dynamically.
- Highlights the potential of engineered LLPS for advanced cellular process control.
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