Cell Biology and Laboratory Techniques Vocabulary Flashcards

Vocabulary flashcards based on lecture notes covering cell membrane components, cellular fractionation, and cell counting equipment.

Cold Buffered Solution (Homogenization)

A solution used during homogenization to maintain pH and reduce enzyme activity that could damage organelles.

Isotonic Solution (Homogenization)

A solution used during homogenization to prevent osmotic damage to organelles.

Excessive Cholesterol in Endothelial Cell Membranes

A condition that can cause harmful effects by increasing LDL retention, contributing to plaque formation and atherosclerosis.

Cholesterol in Endothelial Cell Membranes (Advantage)

Provides an advantage by helping endothelial cells remain flexible to respond to changes in blood pressure and blood flow.

Stage Microtome

An instrument that cuts extremely thin sections of a specimen for microscopic examination.

Extrinsic Proteins (Outer Surface)

Proteins located on the outer surface of the cell membrane that act as receptor sites for hormones and other signaling molecules.

Glycolipids

Membrane components featuring carbohydrate chains that act as surface markers allowing cells to identify one another in cell-to-cell recognition.

Glycoproteins

Molecules in the cell surface membrane that enable cell signaling, cell recognition, and cell adhesion.

Differential Centrifugation

A method used to separate cell components according to their size and density.

Coulter Counter

An automatic cell counting device that removes human error and can count a large number of cells compared with a haemocytometer.