Global control of cellular physiology by biomolecular condensates through modulation of electrochemical equilibria.

ABSTRACT: Control of the electrochemical environment in living cells is typically attributed to ion channels. Here we show that the formation of biomolecular condensates can modulate the electrochemical environment in cells, which affects processes globally within the cell and interactions of the cell with its environment. Condensate formation results in the depletion or enrichment of certain ions, generating intracellular ion gradients. These gradients directly affect the electrochemical properties of a cell, including the cytoplasmic pH and hyperpolarization of the membrane potential. The modulation of the electrochemical equilibria between the intra- and extra-cellular environments by biomolecular condensates governs charge-dependent uptake of small molecules by cells, and thereby directly influe

SUBMITTER: Dai Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10614965 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature