RNA-driven phase transitions in biomolecular condensates.

RNAs and RNA-binding proteins can undergo spontaneous or active condensation into phase-separated liquid-like droplets. These condensates are cellular hubs for various physiological processes, and their dysregulation leads to diseases. Although RNAs are core components of many cellular condensates, the underlying molecular determinants for the formation, regulation, and function of ribonucleoprotein condensates have largely been studied from a protein-centric perspective. Here, we highlight recent developments in ribonucleoprotein condensate biology with a particular emphasis on RNA-driven phase transitions. We also present emerging future directions that might shed light on the role of RNA condensates in spatiotemporal regulation of cellular processes and inspire bioengineering of RNA-based therapeutics. Ribonucleoprotein granules are thought to form via phase separation of RNA and associated proteins. Wadsworth et al. discuss the distinctive ways in which RNA critically contributes to the formation, stability, spatiotemporal dynamics, and function of ribonucleoprotein granules, highlighting emerging perspectives in RNA biology and disease processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]