Dynamic structure of the cytoplasm

Abstract

The cytoplasm is a dense and complex milieu in which a plethora of biochemical reactions occur. Its structure is not understood so far, albeit being central to cellular functioning. In this review, we highlight a novel perspective in which the physical properties of the cytoplasm are regulated in space and time and actively contribute to cellular function. Furthermore, we underscore recent findings that the dynamic formation of local assemblies within the cytoplasm, such as condensates and polysomes, serves as a key regulator of mesoscale cytoplasmic dynamics.