Protein Condensates Determine a Cell’s Fate
(ETH Zurich, October 14, 2025)
Cells organize molecules into clusters that steer critical life decisions, a discovery which could enable new disease treatment strategies. Dr. Tom Peskett and Prof. Yves Barral from ETH Zurich found that protein condensates, large molecule clusters, are key in guiding a cell's direction. They control growth, division, and death by managing the production of proteins.
Using microfluidics and light microscopy, the team observed yeast cells to see how these condensates affect cell division and aging. They successfully induced condensate formation, and discovered a method to influence cell behavior.