Lecture 1 &2 : Cells and Cell membrane Flashcards
What are the 5 characteristics common to all cells
- Arise from pre-existing cells
- genetic info stored as DNA in chromosomes
- proteins synthesised on ribosomes
- has selectively permeable plasma membrane
- subcellular components suspended in semifluid cytosol
What unit is used to measure cells and organelles
microns - um which is 10^-6 m.
How many nm per um.
1000 nm per um
Why is there a diverse range of sizes
they have to exist in different environments with different functions.
What is an angstrom Ao
10^-10 m. Used to measure molecules
What can you see using a light microscope
Most plant and animal cells (eukaryotic) and nucleus, most bacteria and mitochondrion (prokaryotic)
What can you see using a electron microscope
Smallest bacteria, viruses, ribosomes, proteins and lipids.
How does Light microscopy work
The light source at the bottom is focused on the specimen which is magnified by lens and reflected to the eye.
What is the benefits of Light microscopy
Can view live cell behaviour/ movements in real time - EM kills organisms.
How is the contrast brought out in a light microscopy specimen
Staining cells, using phase contrast or fluorescence
What does an EM use to see stuff and the res between the two types
Electromagnets to focus a beam of electrons through the specimen (Transmission- res 2nm) or onto its surface (Scanning res 10nm)
How does Transmission EM vs Scanning EM work
Transmission: electrons are reflected off of heavy metal stains that stick to internal cell structures. Scanning: electron beams excite electrons from the surface of the cells which are detected to make 3D image of surface.
How does cell fractionation work
Homogenize tissue and cells in test tube to let components loose. Centrifuge many times to isolate cell components based on size and density. First nucleus, mitochondria +chloroplasts, microsomes membrane, then ribosomes, more Gs needed the smaller the component
What is a supernatant vs a pellet
the pellet is the heavy denser bit of the centrifuged substance. The supernatant is the lighter layer.
What makes up phospholipid hyrophilic head and hydrophobic tail?
A choline (small molecule) + phosphate group and glycerol = head attached to two fatty acids = tail.
What makes a tail straight or kinked
Saturated are straight and unsaturated are kinks (has double bonds).