Incorporation of MO-LCNPs into DOPC-GUVs is expected to create a significant stored curvature elastic stress in the membrane. Non-bilayer-forming MO lipids (spontaneous curvature = -0.054 ± 0.003 Å -1 ) have an inverted cone shape that prefers curved membranous interfaces, such as in the Im3m cubic phase. This contrasts with the near-cylindrical shape of DOPC lipids (spontaneous curvature = -0.0091 ± 0.0008 Å -1 ) that preferentially aggregate as bilayer membranes. Increasing concentration of MO lipids in the GUV membrane enhances the lateral pressure profile in the hydrophobic core of the bilayer such that each lipid monolayer wants to bend towards the hydrating aqueous medium. Once the MO concentration reaches a critical threshold, these stored stresses are observed to release through a range of GUV morphological transitions.