Chapter 12 - Interactions and interplay of MLOs with classical membrane-bound organelles

Abstract

Various membrane-bound organelles (MBOs) with diverse activities achieve their function by compartmentalization and regulate them in a spatiotemporal manner. On the other hand, a new class called membrane-less organelles (MLOs) or condensates have been discovered to be assembled via a liquid–liquid phase separation process. Phase separation has been observed previously in synthetic polymers but now appears to be relevant to cells too. In this chapter, we focus on the MBOs and MLOs and their biogenesis. The factors influencing and affecting the formation of MLOs and the driving forces behind the phase separation are discussed. The properties of MLOs are unique and differentiate them from the membrane-bound organelles; however, there are stark similarities in many instances. Several studies have concluded that a tight interaction pattern exists between MLOs and MBOs and that they are closely regulated. Therefore, any mutation or perturbation in the phase separation process results in a disease condition. It is evident from the emerging properties of the condensates that the field remains largely unexplored, and further understanding will help reveal new horizons in the field of cell physiology.