Practical considerations for generation of multi-compartment complex coacervates

Gregory A. Mountain, Christine D. Keating

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

6 Scopus citations

Abstract

We discuss preparation of experimental models for multi-compartment membraneless organelles in which distinct compositions are maintained indefinitely for macromolecule-rich phases in contact with each other. These model systems are based on the physical chemistry phenomenon of complex coacervation. In complex coacervation, liquid-liquid phase separation occurs due to ion pairing interactions between oppositely charged polyelectrolytes. This mechanism can drive the associative phase separation of proteins and nucleic acids, the major macromolecular components of membraneless organelles. Here we provide examples, advice and practical considerations for the design, generation, and analysis of multi-compartment complex coacervates. These structures are of interest to compartmentalize the interior of artificial cells and as models for the intracellular membraneless organelles of biological cells.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationLiquid-Liquid Phase Coexistence and Membraneless Organelles
EditorsChristine D. Keating
PublisherAcademic Press Inc.
Pages115-142
Number of pages28
ISBN (Print)9780128211595
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 2021

Publication series

NameMethods in Enzymology
Volume646
ISSN (Print)0076-6879
ISSN (Electronic)1557-7988

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Biochemistry
  • Molecular Biology

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