Sequence-dependent surface condensation of a pioneer transcription factor on DNA

Abstract Biomolecular condensates are dense assemblies of proteins that form distinct biochemical compartments without being surrounded by a membrane. Some, such as P granules and stress granules, behave droplets contain many millions molecules. Others, transcriptional on the surface DNA, small thousands The physics behind formation DNA surfaces is still under discussion. Here we investigate nature transcription factor using pioneer Krüppel-like 4 (Klf4). We show Klf4 can phase separate its own at high concentrations, but low only forms DNA. Using optical tweezers, demonstrate these type condensation. This condensation involves switch-like transition from thin adsorbed layer to thick condensed layer, which shows hallmarks prewetting transition. localization correlates with sequence, suggesting condensate sequence-dependent Prewetting together sequence specificity explain size position control condensates. speculate factors underlies positioning provides robustness regulation.