Biological cells are highly organized with numerous subcellular compartments, many of which lack membranous boundaries. We are developing simple experimental models for these membraneless organelles based on liquid-liquid phase separation, which is a common phenomenon in aqueous solutions of polyelectrolytes and other macromolecules. Solutes such as ions, small molecules, and biopolymers can become compartmentalized by partitioning between the phases. This generates microenvironments that can impact reaction locations, rates, and outcomes. For example, compartmentalization of catalysts and/or mineralization precursors in polymer-rich droplets can control formation of bioinspired organic/inorganic composite materials.

Bioinspired materials synthesis in microenvironments formed by liquid-liquid phase separation

2019 Spring National Meeting

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