In cell fractionation, whole cells are broken up in a blender, and this slurry is centrifuged several times. Each time, smaller and smaller cell parts are isolated. This will isolate different organelles and allow study of their biochemical activities. Which organelles are the smallest ones isolated in this procedure?

Question

Biology

Josephine Russell

4 May, 14:09

In cell fractionation, whole cells are broken up in a blender, and this slurry is centrifuged several times. Each time, smaller and smaller cell parts are isolated. This will isolate different organelles and allow study of their biochemical activities. Which organelles are the smallest ones isolated in this procedure?

+2

Answers (1)

Know the Answer?

Eliza Foley · Answer 1

Ribosomes

Explanation:

Cellular fractionation consists of centrifugally separating the subcellular structures after cell disruption. Cells can be broken in many ways, the most common technique being a rotating plastic pestle inside a tube. The space between the pylon and the tube wall should be sufficient to break the cells causing minimal damage to the organites. After cell disruption, the resulting paste-like material is centrifuged to separate the organelles. The smallest organelle that can be isolated in this type of process is the ribosomes.