Droplets of Life: Membrane-Less Organelles, Biomolecular Condensates, and Biological Liquid-Liquid Phase Separation provides foundational information on the biophysics, biogenesis, structure, functions, and roles of membrane-less organelles. The study of liquid-liquid phase separation has attracted a lot of attention from disciplines such as cell biology, biophysics, biochemistry, and others trying to understand how, why, and what roles these condensates play in homeostasis and disease states in living organisms. This book's editor recruited a group of international experts to provide a current and authoritative overview of all aspects associated with this exciting area.Sections introduce membrane-less organelles (MLOs) and biomolecular condensates; MLOs in different sizes, shapes, and composition; and the formation of MLOs due to phase separation and how it can tune reactions, organize the intracellular environment, and provide a role in cellular fitness.

• Presents the first book to establish the foundations of this exciting research area
• Combines biophysics, structural and cell biology, and biochemistry perspectives into a single volume
• Edited and authored by world-leading scientists
• Covers basic physical and biological principles and health and disease implications

Part I: Introduction to Membrane-less Organelles and Biomolecular Condensates1. Biophysical Principles of Liquid-Liquid Phase Separation2. Major Structural Features of MLOs3. Multiphase Complex Droplets4. Biogenesis of MLOs and Protein Condensates5. Techniques for the Detection and Analysis of LLPS and MLOs6. LLPS and Origin of LifePart II: Biology of Membrane-Less Organelles1. Known Types of Membrane-Less Organelles and Biomolecular Condensates2. Active Regulation Mechanisms3. Control of Metabolic Pathways4. Interactions and Interplay with Classical Membrane-Bound Organelles5. LLPS and Chromatin Organization6. MLOs and Cellular Fitness7. Cellular Stress8. Phase Separation in Bacteria9. Phase Separation and Virus Replication CompartmentsPart III: Pathological roles of LLPS1. Neurodegenerative Diseases2. Cancer3. Cardiovascular Diseases4. Infectious Diseases