Htay M Aye, Mathieu Cayla, Joana R C Faria
The study of biomolecular condensates and other membraneless organelles has shifted the paradigm of cellular organisation, yet their role in parasitic biology remains an emerging field. While model eukaryotes provide the blueprint for phase separation and spatial compartmentalisation, kinetoplastid parasites offer a unique lens through which to explore the functional limits of these 'regulatory hubs'. In this opinion article, we argue that their unconventional biology renders them valuable models for understanding spatial regulation of gene expression. While Trypanosoma brucei serves as the current benchmark, significant gaps remain regarding condensate diversity across other kinetoplastids. We propose a broader investigation into whether these organisms utilise conserved condensates with divergent molecular compositions or entirely novel assemblies to drive their life cycle, pathogenesis, and immune evasion.