Condensates formed by prion-like low-complexity domains have small-world network structures and interfaces defined by expanded conformations

Biomolecular condensates form via coupled associative and segregative phase transitions of multivalent associative macromolecules. Phase separation coupled to percolation is one example of such transitions. Here, we characterize molecular and mesoscale structural descriptions of condensates formed by intrinsically disordered prion-like low complexity domains (PLCDs). These systems conform to sticker-and-spacers architectures. Stickers are cohesive motifs that drive associative interactions through reversible crosslinking and spacers affect the cooperativity of crosslinking and overall macromolecular solubility. Our computations reproduce experimentally measured sequence-specific phase behaviors of PLCDs.…

• SJ
  St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
• NI
  National Institutes of Health

  Award: R01NS121114
• MU
  Multidisciplinary University Research Initiative
• CF
  Center for Information Technology

  Award: R01NS121114
• AF
  Air Force Office of Scientific Research

  Awards: FA9550-, FA9550-20-1, FA9550-20, FA9550, FA9550-20-1-0241