Chapter 4. Cell Fractionation

Introduction

Mouse liver cells were homogenized and the homogenate subjected to equilibrium density-gradient centrifugation with sucrose gradients. Fractions obtained from these gradients were assayed for marker molecules (i.e., molecules that are limited to specific organelles). The results of these assays are shown in the figure.

The marker molecules have the following functions: cytochrome oxidase is an enzyme involved in the process by which ATP is formed in the complete aerobic degradation of glucose or fatty acids; ribosomal RNA forms part of the protein-synthesizing ribosomes; catalase catalyzes decomposition of hydrogen peroxide; acid phosphatase hydrolyzes monophosphoric esters at acid pH; cytidylyl transferase is involved in phospholipid biosynthesis; and amino acid permease aids in transport of amino acids across membranes.