OUR RESEARCH
How do cells compartmentalize diverse biochemical reactions without membranes?
While it is well-described how membrane-bound organelles house specific biochemical pathways, it is less clear how numerous reactions are separated within the same organelle or in the larger cytosol. It was recently discovered that cells overcome this challenge by using condensed phases of proteins and nucleic acids, called biomolecular condensates. We will focus on answering two questions:
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What amino acid sequence features, protein physical properties, and molecular interactions determine the composition and physicochemical environment of a biomolecular condensate?
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How does composition and physicochemical properties control the chemistry within condensates to achieve function?
OUR TEAM
The Condensate Catalyst Group unites researchers with diverse expertise in computational modeling, biochemical reconstitution, structural analysis of polymers, and cell biology. The founding members include: Dr. Michael K. Rosen, Dr. Benjamin Sabari, Dr. Jeffrey Woodruff, Dr. Matthew Parker, and Dr. Qian Cong
OUR MODEL SYSTEMS
Our research focuses on three distinct condensates that are important for genome homeostasis. These condensates can assemble via interactions between intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs) or coiled-coil regions (CCRs).
JOIN US
We are seeking post-docs and graduate students to work on collaborative, cross-disciplinary projects. If you are interested, please fill out our contact form.