Mechanical power is maximized during contractile ring-like formation in a biomimetic dividing cell model

The spatial and temporal dynamics of forces in cells coordinate essential behaviors like division, polarization, and migration. While intracellular signaling initiates contractile ring assembly during cell division, how mechanical forces coordinate division and their energetic costs remain unclear. Here, we develop an in vitro model where myosin-induced stress drives division-like shape changes in giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs, liposomes). Myosin activity is controlled by light patterns globally or locally at the equator. Global activation causes slow, shallow cleavage furrows due to a tug-of-war between the equatorial and polar forces. By contrast, local activation leads to faster, deeper, and symmetric division as equatorial forces dominate. Dissociating the actin cortex at the poles is crucial for inducing significant furrowing. During furrowing, actomyosin flows align actin filaments parallel to the division plane, forming a contractile ring-like structure. Mechanical power is not greatest during contraction, but is maximized just before furrowing. This study reveals the quantitative relationship between force patterning and mechanical energy during division-like shape changes, providing insights into cell division mechanics. While biochemical regulation initiates cell division, how mechanical forces ensure successful division remains unclear. Here, the authors develop a biomimetic model of dividing cells to characterize the cytoskeleton's mechanical power prior to division.