Figure 3.

Average length of F-actins (<L_f>) highly affects network contraction in a similar fashion to R_ACP. We varied <L_f> between 0.7 and 5.0 μm at R_M = 0.04, R_ACP = 0.02, and k_t,A = 30 s⁻¹. (a) The morphology of networks at 56 s with different <L_f>. With short F-actins, only small clusters appear, whereas larger clusters are formed with longer F-actins. If F-actins are very long, enhanced network connectivity precludes formation of separated clusters, leading to interconnected bundles. (b) The heterogeneity of F-actin distribution (blue circle) and $\langle \cos \varphi \rangle$ indicative of persistency of motor velocities between 10 and 20 s (red triangle) depending on <L_f>. The heterogeneity and persistency are the largest at intermediate levels of <L_f> because of the largest contraction. (c) The average speed of motors at early times (0–10 s, blue square) and late times (from 50 s till end, red triangle) as a function of <L_f>. Initial average speed is the highest at intermediate levels of <L_f> because of the largest contraction. At all values of <L_f>, the average speed is decreased significantly over time. To see this figure in color, go online.