Protein condensation regulates water availability in cells

Review Chemistry, Multidisciplinary

Phase Transitions of Associative Biomacromolecules

Rohit Pappu et al.

Summary: In this review, we discuss the role of multivalent associative biomacromolecules, such as proteins and nucleic acids, in the formation and regulation of biomolecular condensates. We also explore the concepts of phase transitions in aqueous solutions of these associative biomacromolecules and their relevance to biomolecular condensates.

CHEMICAL REVIEWS (2023)

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Article Multidisciplinary Sciences

Macromolecular condensation buffers intracellular water potential

Joseph L. Watson et al.

Summary: The availability of water is crucial for optimum protein function and biochemical activity. In concentrated macromolecular solutions, modest changes in temperature have a significant impact on water potential, but this effect is counteracted by changes in osmotic strength. This duality of temperature and osmotic strength allows for simple manipulation of solvent thermodynamics to prevent cell death under extreme cold or heat shock. Water potential-driven changes in macromolecular assembly, particularly biomolecular condensation, rapidly compensate for osmotic and thermal fluctuations in the cytoplasm, ensuring water availability.

NATURE (2023)

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Article Multidisciplinary Sciences