Reconstituted actomyosin networks in lipid bilayer vesicles self-assemble into emergent patterns that drive membrane deformation

Abstract

Self-organization of actomyosin networks and their interaction with the plasma membrane control eukaryotic cell shape changes and mechanics. Using a bottom-up approach to reconstitute actin networks in cell-sized lipid bilayer vesicles, we show that, depending on the confinement size and concentrations of actin crosslinkers alpha-actinin and fascin, distinct actomyosin network patterns emerge in the form of asters and rings. Attachment of actin filaments to the membrane positions the networks at the vesicle periphery but does not alter the architecture of the networks.