Learning Outcomes
i. Understand the basic principles of various cell biology techniques.
ii. Recognize the apparatus and procedures used in each technique.
iii. Appreciate how these techniques contribute to the study of cell structure and function.
i. Cell Fractionation
Principle: This process involves breaking up cells to isolate specific components like the nucleus, mitochondria, or chloroplasts.
Apparatus: Uses a homogenizer to disrupt the cell membranes.
Application: Useful for studying the functions of individual cell components.
ii. Differential Staining
Principle: Different stains are used to highlight specific cell parts under a microscope.
Apparatus: Microscope slides, stains (like hematoxylin and eosin).
Application: Helps to distinguish between different cell types and structures.
iii. Centrifugation
Principle: Separates cellular components based on their size and density using centrifugal force.
Apparatus: A centrifuge machine with various rotor options.
Application: Used in cell fractionation and in purifying cells, subcellular organelles, and macromolecules.
iv. Microdissection
Principle: Involves physically isolating specific parts of cells or tissues under a microscope.
Apparatus: Microdissection tools like needles and microscopes.
Application: For detailed study of the structure and function of specific cell parts.
v. Tissue Culture
Principle: Growing cells or tissues outside of the organism in a controlled environment.
Apparatus: Culture dishes, growth media, incubators.
Application: Used for medical research, genetic engineering, and drug development.
vi. Chromatography
Principle: Separates mixtures into their individual components based on their interactions with a stationary and mobile phase.
Apparatus: Chromatography columns, solvents.
Application: Purification and analysis of biological molecules like proteins and nucleic acids.
vii. Electrophoresis
Principle: Uses an electric field to move charged molecules through a gel matrix.
Apparatus: Electrophoresis setup, including power supply and gel matrix.
Application: Separating DNA, RNA, or proteins for analysis.
viii. Spectrophotometry
Principle: Measures how much light a substance absorbs.
Apparatus: Spectrophotometer.
Application: Quantifying nucleic acids or proteins, monitoring biochemical reactions.
These cell biology techniques are fundamental tools in modern biological research, enabling scientists to dissect complex cellular processes, structures, and functions. Understanding how to use these techniques and their applications is crucial for students in cell biology, biochemistry, and related fields
