Biomolecular Condensates: A New Phase of Epilepsy Research?

Biomolecular condensates are membrane-less compartments that are found in all different types of cells, including neurons. They form by a process called "liquid-liquid phase separation" which happens when it becomes more energetically favorable for macromolecules to cluster, rather than diffuse freely while surrounded by their water-shells. Most research on biomolecular condensates has focused on their role in cellular stress and regulating protein expression, but we are now recognizing their importance in neuronal processes such as synaptic transmission and neurodegeneration. To date, however, little consideration has been given to any role in epileptic pathology. Here we outline what is known about biomolecular condensates, how they form, how they might influence cellular physiology, and how these processes might relate to various open questions in epilepsy research. In particular, we draw attention to their possible role in the cellular regulatory effects of mTOR and how this impacts the control of ionic distribution. We explain how this affects circadian modulation of cortical function, including the susceptibility to seizures.