Morphology of Active Deformable 3D Droplets

We numerically investigate the morphology and disclination line dynamics of active nematic droplets in three dimensions. Although our model incorporates only the simplest possible form of achiral active stress, active nematic droplets display an unprecedented range of complex morphologies. For extensile activity, fingerlike protrusions grow at points where disclination lines intersect the droplet surface. For contractile activity, however, the activity field drives cup-shaped droplet invagination, run-and-tumble motion, or the formation of surface wrinkles. This diversity of behavior is explained in terms of an interplay between active anchoring, active flows, and the dynamics of the motile disclination lines. We discuss our findings in the light of biological processes such as morphogenesis, collective cancer invasion, and the shape control of biomembranes, suggesting that some biological systems may share the same underlying mechanisms as active nematic droplets.

Automated summary

This study numerically investigates the morphology and disclination line dynamics of active nematic droplets in three dimensions, revealing a wide range of complex behaviors. The interaction between active anchoring, active flows, and the dynamics of the motile disclination lines are found to explain the diversity of behavior observed. The findings suggest that some biological systems may share the same underlying mechanisms as active nematic droplets, providing insights into processes such as morphogenesis and collective cancer invasion.