Ultracentrifugation Flashcards
What is cell fractionation?
A process where cells are broken up and the different organelles are separated out based on their size using gravity
Why is the tissue placed in cold, isotonic buffer solution?
The cold reduced enzyme activity. Its isotonic to prevent organelles bursting or shrinking due to osmotic gain. Its buffered to maintain a constant pH
What is Homogenisation?
Breaking up tissue to break open cell membranes and release organelles
Why is the Homogenate filtered?
To remove large debris as these will be heavier and sink to the bottom
What happens during Centrifugation?
The object spins at a slower speed so the larger fragments sink to the bottom forming a pellet
What is the supernatant?
The suspended smaller fragments that remain near the top
