LLPSDB v2.0: an updated database of proteins undergoing liquid-liquid phase separation in vitro

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology
• Biophysics

Background:

• Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) of proteins is crucial for biological processes and diseases.
• Protein LLPS is influenced by intrinsic properties and environmental factors like temperature and pH.
• The LLPSDB database previously curated proteins involved in LLPS and their experimental conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To update and expand the LLPSDB database with new data and features.
• To provide a more comprehensive resource for researchers studying biomolecular LLPS.
• To enhance the usability of the database for querying protein phase separation information.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature curation of proteins involved in in vitro LLPS.
• Inclusion of detailed experimental conditions for each protein.
• Development of an improved web interface with advanced search options.

Main Results:

• LLPSDB v2.0 contains more than double the data of the previous version.
• A new category, 'Ambiguous system,' has been added to classify systems.
• The database offers enhanced search capabilities, including filtering by 'phase separation status.'

Conclusions:

• LLPSDB v2.0 is a significantly expanded and improved resource for LLPS research.
• The updated database facilitates deeper investigation into the biological roles and disease associations of protein LLPS.
• The enhanced features aim to support a growing community of researchers in the field of biomolecular condensates.