Geometry-Dependent Defect Merging Induces Bifurcated Dynamics in Active Networks.

ABSTRACT: Cytoskeletal networks can repair defects to maintain structural integrity. However, the mechanisms and dynamics of defect merging remain poorly understood. Here we report a geometry-tunable merging mechanism in microtubule-motor networks initiated by active crosslinking. We directly generate defects using a light-controlled microtubule-motor system in O-shaped and V-shaped networks, and observe that the defects can self-close. Combining theory and experiment, we find that the V-shaped networks must overcome internal elastic resistance in order to zip up cracks, giving rise to a bifurcation of dynamics dependent on the initial opening angle of the crack: the crack merges below a critical angle and opens up at larger angles. Simulation of a continuum model reproduces the bifurcation dynamics

SUBMITTER: Yang F 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12136475 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature