Mutual remodeling of interacting nanodroplets and vesicles

Abstract

Liquid-liquid phase separation within the cytosol leads to the formation of protein-enriched droplets inside cells. These droplets known as biomolecular condensates have ultra-low interfacial tensions and fulfill a vast range of functions inside cells. Biomolecular condensation can take place at the plasma membrane and generate mechanical forces on membranes as a result of membrane wetting. But little is known about the wetting of membranes by biomolecular condensates. In this study, we utilize energy minimization to explore a wide range of parameters and determine the dependence of membrane wetting phenomena on interfacial tension, bending rigidity, line tension, and spontaneous curvature. We observe that interacting nanodroplets and vesicles mutually remodel one another. In addition, we determine the parameter regimes for which the droplet-membrane systems exhibit axisymmetric and non-axisymmetric contact lines. Our results provide insights into understanding intracellular processes and physical mechanisms based on the mutual remodeling of droplets and membranes.