Pre-Molten, Wet, and Dry Molten Globules en Route to the Functional State of Proteins

Transitions between the unfolded and native states of the ordered globular proteins are accompanied by the accumulation of several intermediates, such as pre-molten globules, wet molten globules, and dry molten globules. Structurally equivalent conformations can serve as native functional states of intrinsically disordered proteins. This overview captures the characteristics and importance of these molten globules in both structured and intrinsically disordered proteins. It also discusses examples of engineered molten globules. The formation of these intermediates under conditions of macromolecular crowding and their interactions with nanomaterials are also reviewed.

Automated summary

Transitions between unfolded and native states of globular proteins result in the accumulation of intermediate states known as molten globules. These intermediates, including pre-molten globules, wet molten globules, and dry molten globules, play important roles in both structured and intrinsically disordered proteins. This overview highlights the characteristics and significance of molten globules, discusses engineered molten globules, and reviews their formation under macromolecular crowding conditions and interactions with nanomaterials.