Density gradient centrifugation

Density gradient centrifugation is a method used in Biochemistry and Cell biology to separate different components of a mixture based on their densities. This technique is commonly used to isolate specific cells, proteins, or nucleic acids within a sample.

Pronunciation

Den-si-ty gra-di-ent cen-tri-fu-ga-tion

Etymology

The term "Density gradient centrifugation" is derived from three words: "Density" (from Latin densitas, meaning compactness), "gradient" (from Latin gradientem, meaning to step or walk), and "centrifugation" (from Latin centrum, meaning center and fugere, meaning to flee).

Process

In Density gradient centrifugation, a sample is placed in a centrifuge tube containing a solution with a gradient of densities. The tube is then spun at high speeds in a centrifuge. The different components of the sample will migrate through the gradient until they reach the point where their density matches that of the surrounding solution. At this point, they will stop moving and can be collected for further analysis.

Types

There are two main types of Density gradient centrifugation: Rate-zonal centrifugation and Isopycnic centrifugation. In Rate-zonal centrifugation, the sample is layered on top of the gradient and the components are separated based on both their size and density. In Isopycnic centrifugation, the sample is mixed with the gradient and the components are separated solely based on their density.

Applications

Density gradient centrifugation is used in various fields of biology and medicine. It is commonly used in molecular biology to isolate DNA, RNA, and proteins for further study. In cell biology, it is used to separate different types of cells or organelles within a sample. In medicine, it is used to isolate specific cells, such as stem cells, for research or therapeutic purposes.

Related Terms

• Centrifuge
• Density
• Rate-zonal centrifugation
• Isopycnic centrifugation
• Cell
• Protein
• Nucleic acid

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Density gradient centrifugation
• Wikipedia's article - Density gradient centrifugation

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