Cell fractionation

Cell fractionation is the process where cells are broken up and the different organelles they contain are seperated out. Before cell fractionation the tissue is placed in a cold, isotonic, buffered solution.  The solution is 

Cold- To reduce enzyme activity that might break down the organelles 

Isotonic- To prevent organelles from bursting or shrinking as a result of the osmotic gain or loss of water

Buffered- To maintain a constant PH. 

Two stages to cell fractionation:

Homogenisation:

Cells are broken up by a homogeniser which releases the organelles fromt the…