Droplets of Life

Book excerpt: Droplets of Life: Membrane-Less Organelles, Biomolecular Condensates, and Biological Liquid–Liquid Phase Separation provides foundational information on the biophysics, biogenesis, structure, functions, and roles of membrane-less organelles. The study of liquid–liquid phase separation has attracted a lot of attention from disciplines such as cell biology, biophysics, biochemistry, and others trying to understand how, why, and what roles these condensates play in homeostasis and disease states in living organisms. This book's editor recruited a group of international experts to provide a current and authoritative overview of all aspects associated with this exciting area. Sections introduce membrane-less organelles (MLOs) and biomolecular condensates; MLOs in different sizes, shapes, and composition; and the formation of MLOs due to phase separation and how it can tune reactions, organize the intracellular environment, and provide a role in cellular fitness. . - Presents the first book to establish the foundations of this exciting research area - Combines biophysics, structural and cell biology, and biochemistry perspectives into a single volume - Edited and authored by world-leading scientists - Covers basic physical and biological principles and health and disease implications