Year: 2023
Type: article
Abstract: Microtubule-based active fluids exhibit turbulent-like autonomous flows, which are driven by the molecular motor powered motion of filamentous constituents. Controlling active stresses in space and time is an essential prerequisite for controlling the intrinsically chaotic dynamics of extensile active fluids. We design single-headed kinesin molecular motors that exhibit optically enhanced clustering and thus enable precise and repeatable spatial and temporal control of extensile active stresses. Such motors enable rapid, reversible switching between flowing and quiescent states. In turn, spatio-temporal patterning of the active stress controls the evolution of the ubiquitous bend instability of extensile active fluids and determines its critical length dependence. Combining optically controlled clusters with conventional kinesin motors enables one-time switching from contractile to extensile active stresses. These results open a path towards real-time control of the autonomous flows generated by active fluids.
Source: PNAS Nexus
Language: English
Topic: Micro and Nano Robotics
Subfield: Condensed Matter Physics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $4,000
Awards: Bioinspired Soft Materials, G2730000833, MRI: Acquisition of a Fast-scanning Confocal Microscope to Advance Biophysics, Neuroscience and Bioengineering Research and Training, G7240839585, G7511209169, G7833242660, MACHINE LEARNING APPROACHES TO UNDERSTANDING AND CONTROLLING 3D ACTIVE MATTER, G8088400230
OpenAlex ID: W4365150121