Endocytosis of Coacervates into Liposomes

Recent studies have shown that the interactions between condensates and biological membranes are of functional importance. Here, we study how the interaction between complex coacervates and liposomes as model systems can lead to wetting, membrane deformation, and endocytosis. Depending on the interaction strength between coacervates and liposomes, the wetting behavior ranged from nonwetting to engulfment (endocytosis) and complete wetting. Endocytosis of coacervates was found to be a general phenomenon: coacervates made from a wide range of components could be taken up by liposomes. A simple theory taking into account surface energies and coacervate sizes can explain the observed morphologies. Our findings can help to better understand condensate-membrane interactions in cellular systems and provide new avenues for intracellular delivery using coacervates.

Automated summary

Recent studies have examined the interactions between condensates and biological membranes, specifically the interaction between complex coacervates and liposomes. The researchers observed wetting behavior ranging from nonwetting to engulfment and complete wetting, and found that coacervates made from a variety of components can be taken up by liposomes. A simple theory based on surface energies and coacervate sizes can explain the observed morphologies.