Methods of Studying Cells (AQA A-Level Biology): Flashcards

Laboratory technique that breaks apart cells and separates organelles into distinct fractions

Reduces enzyme activity that could damage organelles

Prevents organelles bursting/shrinking by osmosis

Maintains stable pH and prevents organelle damage

Breaks open cells to release organelles using homogeniser

Mixture of organelles and cell components after homogenation

By mass/density - heavier organelles sink faster

Liquid portion at top of tube after centrifugation

Nuclei first, then mitochondria, then lysosomes

Nuclei: 1,000 rpm; Mitochondria: 3,500 rpm