Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 26, 2026
06:48
Single-Molecule Measurement of Protein Interaction Dynamics Within Biomolecular Condensates
Published on: January 5, 2024
Small molecules modulate the biomolecular condensates and liquid‒liquid phase separation
Kaiyue Lian1,2, Fajun Nan1,3,2
1State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, The National Center for Drug Screening, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.
Acta Pharmaceutica Sinica. B
|May 25, 2026
Summary
Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) forms biomolecular condensates crucial for cell function and disease. This review explores LLPS mechanisms, modulators, and therapeutic potential for diseases like cancer and neurodegeneration.
Area of Science:
- Cellular Biology
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Medicine
Background:
- Biological macromolecules undergo phase separation, forming condensates essential for cellular processes.
- Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) is vital for gene expression and signaling, enabling cellular responses.
- Dysregulation of LLPS is linked to diseases including neurodegeneration, cancer, and aging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review biomolecular condensate formation and their role in disease.
- To catalog small-molecule modulators of LLPS and their clinical progress.
- To discuss technological advancements and future therapeutic potential of LLPS.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of biomolecular condensates and LLPS.
- Cataloging of tool compounds and small-molecule modulators.
- Analysis of recent technological breakthroughs in LLPS research.
Main Results:
- LLPS is a fundamental mechanism for cellular organization and function.
- Numerous small molecules can modulate LLPS, showing therapeutic promise.
- Technological advancements are accelerating LLPS research and drug development.
Conclusions:
- Understanding LLPS is key to developing novel disease interventions.
- Pharmacological modulation of LLPS offers a promising therapeutic avenue.
- The field of LLPS holds significant potential for future medical applications.
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