Here, we developed a method to generate a synthetic cortex at the membrane of synthetic cells upon blue light illumination.
This is important since it allow us to control the mechanical properties of synthetic cells reversibly. When incorporated into a synthetic tissue, this method would enable mechanical patterning and defining the 3D morphology of tissue with light.
This work describes an engineering approach for building assembly states that are fuel driven, which aligns with IRG 1’s goals.
