p62 bodies: cytosolic zoning by phase separation

Area of Science:

• Cellular and molecular biology
• Biochemistry
• Cellular dynamics

Background:

• Cellular zoning, achieved by both membranous and membraneless organelles, is essential for controlling biochemical reactions.
• Membraneless organelles form dynamically via liquid-liquid phase separation in response to environmental cues.
• p62 bodies are ubiquitin-positive membraneless organelles vital for cellular homeostasis and quality control.

Approach:

• This review synthesizes recent advancements in understanding p62 bodies.
• Focuses on their dynamic formation, function, and regulation.
• Highlights their role in selective autophagy and the KEAP1-NRF2 antioxidant pathway.

Key Points:

• p62 bodies are critical for maintaining cellular homeostasis through selective autophagy.
• They play a key role in intracellular quality control mechanisms.
• p62 bodies activate the KEAP1-NRF2 antioxidant stress response pathway.

Conclusions:

• Membraneless organelles, particularly p62 bodies, are dynamic regulators of cellular processes.
• Understanding p62 bodies offers insights into cellular quality control and stress response.
• Further research into p62 bodies can illuminate therapeutic strategies for diseases involving oxidative stress.