Complex dynamics of multicomponent biological coacervates

Abstract

Phase transitions and coacervates play key roles in natural and synthetic soft matter. In particular, the past few years have seen a rapid expansion in studies of these phenomena in the context of dynamic cellular compartmentalization. In this brief review, we mainly focus on a few concepts and selected in vitro and cellular examples of recent developments in the areas of dynamics and multicomponent systems. Topics covered include the flexibility and conformational dynamics of polymeric species involved in phase separation, valence and non-monotonic effects, noise modulation and feedback loops, and multicomponent systems and substructure. The fundamental concepts discussed in this review are widely applicable, including in the context of cellular function and the development of materials with novel properties.