Phase Separation in Asymmetric Cell Division

Biochemistry. 2020 Jan 14;59(1):47-56. doi: 10.1021/acs.biochem.9b00813. Epub 2019 Oct 28.

Abstract

Asymmetric cell division (ACD) is a conserved strategy for achieving cell diversity. A cell can undergo an intrinsic ACD through asymmetric segregation of cell fate determinants or cellular organelles. Recently, a new biophysical concept known as biomolecular phase separation, through which proteins and/or RNAs autonomously form a highly concentrated non-membrane-enclosed compartment via multivalent interactions, has provided new insights into the assembly and regulation of many membrane-less or membrane-attached organelles. Intriguingly, biomolecular phase separation is suggested to drive asymmetric condensation of cell fate determinants during ACD as well as organization of cellular organelles involved in ACD. In this Perspective, I first summarize recent findings on the molecular basis governing intrinsic ACD. Then I will discuss how ACD might be regulated by formation of dense molecular assemblies via phase separation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Asymmetric Cell Division / physiology*
  • Caenorhabditis elegans
  • Drosophila melanogaster
  • Male
  • Organelles / metabolism
  • Phase Transition
  • Protein Aggregates / physiology
  • Proteins / chemistry
  • Proteins / metabolism*
  • RNA / chemistry
  • RNA / metabolism*
  • Spindle Apparatus / metabolism

Substances

  • Protein Aggregates
  • Proteins
  • RNA