  Stress granules (SG) are droplets of proteins and RNA that form in the cell
cytoplasm during stress conditions. We consider minimal models of stress
granule formation based on the mechanism of phase separation regulated by
ATP-driven chemical reactions. Motivated by experimental observations, we
identify a minimal model of SG formation triggered by ATP depletion. Our
analysis indicates that ATP is continuously hydrolysed to deter SG formation
under normal conditions, and we provide specific predictions that can be tested
experimentally.
