Characterization of Biomolecular Condensate Material Properties
Biomolecular condensates are liquid-like objects containing multiple protein and RNA molecules that are formed primarily by liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS). The thermodynamically favorable nature and kinetics of the multivalent biomolecular interactions driving LLPS affect the physical properties of the resulting condensates, including their size, shape, material properties (e.g., viscosity, surface tension, viscoelasticity, and macromolecular diffusion), and the degree of partitioning of the biomolecules within them. Among others, the material/physical properties of biomolecular condensates play an important role in regulating their biological functions. Abnormalities in these properties have been associated with various neurodegenerative diseases and certain types of cancer.
Fig. 1. Biological condensates possess distinct material states. ( Wang Z, et al., 2022)
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The material properties of the condensed state allow for accurate characterization of the condensed state. Our experts have a great interest in the correlation between the material properties of biomolecular condensates and their physical functions and or pathogenic effects. Here, CD BioSciences offers classical and newly emerging techniques to characterize and/or measure the material properties of biocondensates, including concentration, diffusion coefficient, viscosity, elasticity, interfacial tension, etc.
- Classic Methods for Characterizing the Material Properties of Biomolecular Condensates
- Fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) assay
- Optical trap-induced coalescence
- Fusion assay
- Chemical/salt resistance assays
- Fluorescence imaging
- Newly Emerging Techniques for Measuring the Material Properties of Biomolecular Condensates
- Atomic force microscopy
- Micropipette aspiration assay
- Single-particle tracking assay
- Optical tweezers
- Fluorescence correlation spectroscopy
- Microfluidic devices
- Raman imaging
- Single molecule mechanics technique
- Cryo-EM and 3D tomography
These techniques do not provide absolute measurements of condensed material properties, but rather provide simple tools to measure the relative changes in droplet material properties under different conditions. Based on advanced multiple physicochemical methods, CD BioSciences provides comprehensive characterization services for the properties of biocondensed materials.
We have powerful tools to explore the role of material properties of biomolecular condensates in their physiological functions. It is important to note that the material property values estimated by different methods may differ for the same bioconcentrate. Depending on your project, we will select the most cost effective combination of techniques for you. If you have any special requirements for our services, please feel free to contact us. We are looking forward to working together with your attractive projects.
Reference
- Wang Z, Lou J, Zhang H. (2022) Essence determines phenomenon: Assaying the material properties of biological condensates[J]. Journal of Biological Chemistry. 298(4).
For research use only, not intended for any clinical use.
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