Biophysical Mechanisms of Liquid–Liquid Phase Separation in Biological Systems

Abstract

A key biophysical process in biological systems, liquid–liquid phase separation (LLPS) is responsible for constructing membrane-less organelles and modulating cellular activities. The biophysical mechanisms underlying LLPS are explored in this paper, with an emphasis on multivalent interactions, entropy-driven processes, and how they affect cellular organization. We investigate the impact of external stimuli on phase behavior and clarify the physiological roles of biomolecular condensates, from stress response modulation to gene expression regulation. In addition, we study dysregulated LLPS in human disorders, providing information about possible therapeutic targets and approaches to innovative therapeutics. Through this interdisciplinary approach, we aim to improve our knowledge of LLPS and its effects on health and illness, opening the door to new therapeutic approaches that focus on the behavior of proteins and the structure of cells.