Self-contracting vascular networks

Biological vascular systems can autonomously drive internal flows through spontaneous contractions of their channels. These flows emerge from local interactions involving fluid–structure coupling, mechanosensory feedback, and inter-channel fluid exchange. These local interactions enable decentralised control of matter and information transport. Inspired by these principles, we designed a controllable poroelastic network that incorporates pressure-based mechanosensory feedback. Varying the dynamics of the pressure feedback, we explore how flow patterns self-organise and how active networks dynamically interact with external fields. Our results provide both a model system for uncovering the design principles underlying biological transport networks and a basis for developing autonomous transport in fluidic systems.