Hidden architecture inside cellular droplets reveals new targets for cancer and neurodegeneration

Cells rely on biomolecular condensates to coordinate essential biological processes without surrounding membranes. These droplet-like dynamic assemblies control the way in which DNA is turned into proteins, help clear cellular waste to prevent toxicity and disease, and can even suppress cancerous tumors. Because they behave like liquids, able to merge, flow and rapidly exchange their contents, scientists had long assumed condensates lacked internal organization and functioned as a simple liquid.