Optimizing (Bio) Catalysis with Liquid-Liquid Phase Separation Systems

Abstract

Membraneless organelles, also known as biomolecular condensates, lack a surrounding membrane and are formed through liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS). This process enhances reaction efficiency by compartmentalizing and concentrating reactants. Coacervates, a class of condensates, provide promising synthetic alternatives for improving enzymatic reactions. This review examines how LLPS enhances reaction efficiency in both natural and artificial systems, explores the design principles of coacervate-based artificial organelles employed in (bio)catalysis, and discusses challenges and future directions for leveraging LLPS in catalysis.