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Liquid Liquid Phase Separation

All articles tagged with #liquid liquid phase separation

Arrestin condensates orchestrate GPCR signaling through liquid–liquid phase separation
science5 days ago

Arrestin condensates orchestrate GPCR signaling through liquid–liquid phase separation

New research shows beta-arrestins 1 and 2 form endogenous condensates near activated GPCRs via liquid–liquid phase separation, a process regulated by IP6-induced oligomerization and the arrestin intrinsically disordered region. These condensates influence GPCR desensitization, internalization, and downstream signaling, with arrestin orientation and specific mutations (IP6 sites and IDR) altering function, suggesting LLPS compartments are important regulators of GPCR signaling and could inform drug development.

Prion protein and copper drive liquid-liquid phase separation in a physics-biology fusion
science2 years ago

Prion protein and copper drive liquid-liquid phase separation in a physics-biology fusion

Researchers from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro and the German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases have discovered that the prion protein (PrP) can form dynamic liquid condensates at the cell surface, potentially acting as scavengers for excessive copper ions. The study sheds light on the intricate relationship between PrP and copper ions in live cells and highlights the role of liquid-liquid phase separation in regulating copper homeostasis. The findings have implications for understanding prion diseases and suggest potential interventions targeting copper-bound prion protein condensates to prevent abnormal solid formation and mitigate neurodegenerative outcomes.