Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 4, 2026

Solubility of Hydrophobic Compounds in Aqueous Solution Using Combinations of Self-assembling Peptide and Amino Acid
Published on: September 20, 2017
Liquid-Liquid Phase Separation of Peptide-Based Biomacromolecules: Mechanisms, Responsive Factors, and Biomedical
Jiahui Zhang1, Pengfei Pei1, Zilong Li1
1State Key Laboratory of Green Biomanufacturing, College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China.
Abstract:
Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) drives the formation of biomolecular coacervates, which play important roles in cellular organization and disease development. In this review, the LLPS properties of proteins and peptides are systematically summarized, specifically on coacervate classification and sequence-based molecular design principles. These emphasize the importance of synergistic intermolecular forces in governing phase separation. Kinetically, the LLPS-mediated coalescence process in terms of nucleation barriers and further self-assembly is analyzed. The precise regulations of coacervate material properties by environmental factors are evaluated, including pH, ionic strength, redox potential, and enzymes. In applications, these dynamic systems demonstrate reversible dissociation, liquid-to-solid phase transitions, and good biocompatibility, which enable them to be developed as biomaterials for bioadhesives, microreactors, drug delivery, and optical signals. The fundamental characteristics of protein/peptide coacervates are bridged to their biomedical applications in this review, highlighting the potential of these materials in the development of scientific research and clinical translation.
Related Concept Videos
DNA Isolation
Overview Of Cell Separation And Isolation
Two-dimensional Gel Electrophoresis
The first dimension separation uses the isoelectric focusing or IEF technique performed on immobilized pH gradient (IPG) strips that separate proteins according to their isoelectric points.
Biological samples, such...
Electrophoresis: Overview
There...
Capillary Electrophoresis: Applications
Capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) separates ionic components based on their electrophoretic mobility. It has been used to separate proteins, amino acids,...
Applications of Molecular Taxonomy

