Biotechnology

Cell disruption (lysis) breaks open cells to extract intracellular components for research, diagnostics, and biopharmaceuticals. Methods vary based on cell type and sensitivity of biomolecules.

Techniques:

1. Mechanical Methods:

  • Bead Beating, Homogenization, Ultrasonication: Effective but generate heat.
  • Mortar & Pestle, Blenders: Suitable for plant/tissue samples.

2. Non-Mechanical Methods:

(A) Physical: Freeze-thaw, osmotic shock, electroporation.
(B) Chemical: Detergents (SDS, Triton X-100), acids/bases.
(C) Enzymatic: Lysozyme (bacterial cell wall lysis).

Applications:

Used in protein extraction, genetic studies, biopharmaceuticals, and environmental monitoring. Selection depends on efficiency, biomolecule stability, and scalability.