Self-driven Cytoskeletal Active Matter: Long-range Dynamics through Viscoelastic Properties

Active forces shape living systems, providing them with adaptable, reconfigurable properties. These dynamics are driven by molecular motors that move along the cytoskeleton network embedded in an elastic matrix. This matrix resists deformations while the intrinsic non-equilibrium building blocks generate coordinated motion, revealing a spectrum of physical phenomena at scales much larger than individual units. In synthetic bioinspired materials, the interplay between active forces and elastic properties similarly reveals non-equilibrium behaviors, such as localized turbulent flows and short-range spatial correlations. Yet, achieving globally synchronized flows presents a significant challenge, as it necessitates long-range interactions beyond local activity. To address this, we have integrated an active network of microtubules and molecular motors with a viscoelastic passive polymer network. This integration not only maintains chaotic local flows but also induces global mechanical oscillations, marking a significant step in replicating the large-scale collective motion observed in living systems. Exploring this active viscoelastic network allows us to investigate a new regime of active matter where local turbulence leads to global synchronization. This research emphasizes the crucial role of elasticity in regulating active dynamics and opens new possibilities for designing lifelike materials capable of autonomous, coordinated behavior.