The intriguing material and dynamic properties of condensates

Biomolecular condensates form in cells when proteins phase separate from solution into liquid-like phases. Their unique material properties are central to biological function, yet remain poorly understood. In this talk, I will discuss two striking phenomena. First, I will present our results on fiber growth in a phase-separated system of FUS. Unexpectedly, we find that fiber formation occurs primarily in the dilute phase surrounding condensates, rather than within their highly concentrated interiors. Second, I will describe our work on the directed motion of condensates in gradients of ATP, RNA, and other solutes, and discuss possible underlying physical mechanisms. 

Chair: Silke Henkes