Shaping Synthetic Cells Through Cytoskeleton-Condensate-Membrane Interactions

Abstract Constructing synthetic cells is fascinating both from standpoints of understanding cellular machinery and developing bio-inspired materials for targeted applications. The ability to impart dynamic shape and structure to such rationally designed assemblies, mimicking cellular morphogenesis, is still in its early stages. In this review, we discuss the interactions between three basic molecular assemblies that have shown promise in shaping synthetic cells: deformable membranes, phase-separated condensates, and the dynamic cytoskeleton. The interplay between these components facilitates compartmentalization, force generation, and dynamic shape changes. We particularly discuss the role of condensates as a versatile intermediary to link the cytoskeleton to the membrane. We propose that hybrid systems of these components present versatile platforms towards the eventual structuring and morphogenesis of artificial cells.