Prof. Ayala Lampel
20/02/2025
אודיטוריום ע"ש דויד וואנג, בניין מידן, קומה 3
14:30
Biomolecular condensates, formed through liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS), serve as dynamic platforms for biochemical regulation. Inspired by these cellular structures, we developed designer peptide-based condensates to modulate chemical transformations, focusing on the Cu(I)-catalyzed click reaction as a model system. By incorporating hydrophobic isoleucine residues into peptide sequences, we tailored condensate properties, influencing reaction rate and conversion. A single isoleucine enhanced reactant recruitment and reaction efficiency, while excessive hydrophobicity resulted in solid-like condensates that impeded catalysis. The study highlights the critical balance of hydrophobicity for optimal microreactor performance, demonstrating a novel approach to regulate chemical transformations in water-based systems. This work establishes a foundation for engineering biomolecular condensates as green chemistry platforms and reaction vessels for diverse applications.