Cytoplasmic zoning by protein phase transition after membrane permeabilization

Area of Science:

• Cell Biology
• Biophysics

Background:

• Biological membranes (plasma membrane and organelle membranes) act as barriers, controlling the movement of substances within cells.
• Membrane integrity can be compromised by physical damage or pore formation, leading to altered cellular environments.

Approach:

• This review synthesizes recent evidence on cellular responses to biological membrane permeabilization.
• It focuses on the mechanisms and functional consequences of protein phase transitions.

Key Points:

• Membrane damage induces protein gelation and condensation, creating zones that limit the flux of ions, molecules, and organelles.
• Permeabilization alters ion and molecule concentrations, driving downstream pathways that trigger protein phase transitions.
• These phase transitions form distinct cellular zones for biological processes or protein sequestration.

Conclusions:

• Protein phase transitions are a critical cellular response to membrane permeabilization.
• These transitions play a key role in regulating cellular organization and function following membrane damage.