Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) is a fundamental biophysical process driving the formation of dynamic biomolecular condensates, which spatially organize cellular biochemistry without membrane de Show more
Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) is a fundamental biophysical process driving the formation of dynamic biomolecular condensates, which spatially organize cellular biochemistry without membrane delimitation. These condensates arise from multivalent, weak interactions among intrinsically disordered proteins, modular interaction motifs, and RNA scaffolds, enabling highly tunable and reversible compartmentalization of biomolecules. This phase behavior regulates critical cellular functions such as gene expression, signal transduction, and stress response, while its dysregulation contributes to pathological aggregation and disease. Recent advances leverage LLPS principles to design synthetic condensates with controllable composition, properties, and activities. Combining structural insights, quantitative phase behavior, and synthetic biology tools, engineered condensates have been developed for enhanced catalysis, metabolic control, targeted drug delivery, and biosensing. This review summarizes the molecular mechanisms, design strategies, and translational prospects of LLPS-mediated condensates, thereby paving the way for future exploration at the interface of cellular biophysics and bioengineering. Show less
The ribosome is a macromolecular complex composed of RNA and proteins that interact
through an integrated and interconnected network to preserve its ancient core activities. In this review,
we emphasi Show more
The ribosome is a macromolecular complex composed of RNA and proteins that interact
through an integrated and interconnected network to preserve its ancient core activities. In this review,
we emphasize the pivotal role played by RNA-binding proteins as a driving force in the evolution
of the current form of the ribosome, underscoring their importance in ensuring accurate protein
synthesis. This category of proteins includes both ribosomal proteins and ribosome biogenesis
factors. Impairment of their RNA-binding activity can also lead to ribosomopathies, which is a
group of disorders characterized by defects in ribosome biogenesis that are detrimental to protein
synthesis and cellular homeostasis. A comprehensive understanding of these intricate processes is
essential for elucidating the mechanisms underlying the resulting diseases and advancing potential
therapeutic interventions. Show less