During experimental enucleation followed by centrifugation, what is the fate of the nuclei relative to the rest of the cell material?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Nuclei detach from the cells and pellet at the bottom

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Enucleation and fractionation techniques are common in cell biology, nuclear transfer, and somatic cell cloning workflows. Centrifugation separates components based on size and density, allowing isolation of nuclei apart from cytoplasmic fragments and membranes.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Nuclei have relatively high density and large size compared with cytoplasmic vesicles.
  • Appropriate centrifugal force and time are applied.
  • Cells have been mechanically or chemically manipulated to allow nuclear release.


Concept / Approach:
Under centrifugal force, the denser fraction (nuclei) sediments and forms a pellet, while lighter cytoplasmic components remain suspended or form upper layers. This principle underlies differential centrifugation used to separate cellular organelles.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Prepare cell homogenate or enucleated preparation.Apply centrifugation at a g-force sufficient for nuclei sedimentation.Collect the pellet containing nuclei from the tube bottom.


Verification / Alternative check:
Standard organelle isolation protocols list sedimentation characteristics: nuclei pellet at low g-forces compared with mitochondria, lysosomes, and microsomes.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • B/E: Nuclei do not remain in the supernatant or float; they are denser and pellet.
  • C/D: Experimental enucleation coupled with centrifugation separates nuclei from cell bodies rather than leaving them attached or unseparated.


Common Pitfalls:
Using insufficient g-force or time, leading to incomplete pelleting or mixed fractions.


Final Answer:
Nuclei detach from the cells and pellet at the bottom

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