molecular condensate scaffold activity

Definition

Target type: molecularfunction

Binding and bringing together two or more macromolecules in contact, permitting those molecules to organize as a molecular condensate. [PMID:28225081]

Molecular condensate scaffold activity refers to the ability of a protein or other molecule to act as a scaffold, organizing and concentrating specific sets of molecules within a cellular compartment. These compartments, known as molecular condensates, are not membrane-bound organelles but rather dynamic, liquid-like structures formed through weak, non-covalent interactions. Molecular condensate scaffolds play a crucial role in regulating cellular processes by facilitating the assembly of specific protein complexes and enhancing the local concentration of specific signaling molecules. This localized organization allows for efficient and specific interactions and reactions, contributing to diverse cellular functions such as gene regulation, signal transduction, and stress response. The activity of these scaffolds is often dependent on the presence of specific protein domains, such as intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs) or short linear motifs (SLiMs), which mediate the formation of weak interactions with other molecules. In addition to protein scaffolds, nucleic acids, such as RNA, can also act as scaffolds within molecular condensates. The formation and dissolution of these condensates are highly dynamic and regulated, responding to changes in cellular conditions and signaling pathways. This dynamic nature allows for the rapid assembly and disassembly of specific signaling and regulatory complexes, contributing to the cell's ability to adapt to its environment.'
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Proteins (14)

Compounds (1,889)