Flux pathway reveals why mussel-like liquid phase separation can happen in seconds

Have you ever wondered how mussels instantly stick to rocks, allowing them to survive the crushing force of ocean waves? They complete this process in less than 30 seconds. Yet in the laboratory, replicating this molecular self-assembly process, known as liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS), typically takes tens of minutes or even hours. A research team from the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) recently solved this long-standing puzzle using large-scale molecular dynamics simulation and theoretical analysis, revealing the secret to nature’s incredible speed and providing implications for instant biocompatible surgical glues.