Biomolecular condensates - extant relics or evolving microcompartments?

Area of Science:

• Cell Biology
• Biochemistry
• Evolutionary Biology

Background:

• Biomolecular condensates (BCs) are increasingly recognized for their widespread presence and diverse biological roles.
• Many BCs form through liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) of RNA and proteins, creating concentrated, dense phases.
• BCs offer energy-independent, reversible control over cellular processes and adaptation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review historical and current discoveries concerning LLPS and BCs.
• To explore the nature of BCs as either static biological hubs or evolving microcompartments.
• To discuss the evolutionary origins of LLPS and its role in early life.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of historical and contemporary research on LLPS and BCs.
• Analysis of the properties and functions of various BCs.
• Comparative study of BCs and membrane-bound organelles.

Main Results:

• BCs are ubiquitous and play significant roles in cellular organization and function.
• LLPS is a fundamental biophysical process underlying BC formation.
• Evidence suggests BCs are not static but are evolving in complexity.

Conclusions:

• Biomolecular condensates represent an extant biological phenomenon.
• BCs are co-evolving as functionally and compositionally complex microcompartments.
• These evolving compartments function alongside traditional membrane-bound organelles.