Phase separation in multi-component membrane during cell adhesion

Gaining insight into the phase separation in multi-component membrane during cell adhesion, along with its functional implications and regulatory strategies, is crucial for elucidating physiological and pathological processes, as well as for advancing therapeutic innovation. Here, we review the regulatory factors and underlying mechanisms modulating phase separation in multi-component membranes, with a particular focus on adhesion protein interactions, thermal membrane fluctuations, protein mobility and distribution, as well as external forces, and examine how substrate topography can be exploited to regulate phase separation in multi-component membranes. These findings highlight the critical role of cell adhesion in phase separation, advance our understanding of its regulatory mechanisms, and provide feasible strategies for controlling phase separation in multi-component membranes during cell adhesion.