Cell Parts Examination
The microscope is one of the essential tools used in observing and studying cells and its parts and structures. Not just any kind of microscope could do however. As cell parts are extremely small and even transparent, an optical microscope would need to use another illumination system than bright field to make them transparent. At times, cells and cell parts may be dyed or subjected to staining to make them visible. Some staining techniques, however, could cause cells to die.
Magnification is also another consideration when observing cells and its parts. A low power microscope wouldn’t be able to magnify such specimens to the point of making them fully visible and appear in great detail. High-end optical microscopes can magnify images of cells up to 2000x. Electron microscopes have magnification levels as high as 1,000,000x but they are extremely expensive to purchase and maintain. Nevertheless, the diligent student, researcher, and hobbyist still have a chance to study cells and its parts simply by utilizing dark field microscopy.
How a Dark Field Microscope Works
You need to insert an opaque disc below the lens of your microscope’s condenser to filter light coming through and ensure that only those scattered by your cell specimen would be discernible. Thus, what you’ll see is light levels reflected by your specimen. No matter what color your specimen is, they will be visible and appear against a black setting. If you want to know more this type of microscopic technique, check out http://www.darkfield-microscope.com
Identifying Parts of a Cell
At times, scientists use a machine called centrifuge to separate the various parts of a cell. Sometimes, cell parts are processed inside a centrifuge to separate them from each other and make them distinguishable. In this process, cells are grinded then placed in a tube. The tube is placed inside the centrifuge machine and then spun at extremely high speed levels. Afterwards, heavier cell parts sink while lighter cell parts float up.
Some of the cell parts here are shared by both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells while others are exclusive to one or another.
Cell Membrane – This functions as the protective barrier of a cell, filtering anything that goes in and out of the cell. It is generally made up of hydrophilic phosphorous and lipid or fat-like molecules. Inside it is a number of protein molecules that facilitate movement of molecules traveling in and out of a cell.
Cytoskeleton – This is made up of microtubules as well as microfilaments and intermediate filaments. You can see protein molecules here, too. It is responsible for organizing and maintaining the shape of a cell and keeps organelles in place. They also participate in cytokinesis and endocytosis.
Genetic Material – Cells contain genetic information of two kinds: DNA or deoxyribonucleic acid and RNA or ribonucleic acid. Many people are already aware of how DNA works, thanks to the DNA tests used to determine paternity and the constant use of DNA evidence in crime-solving shows. RNA, on the other hand, generally serves as an information channel and functions like enzymes in other ways.
Organelle – Cells possess small internal organs called organelles, all of which serve different functions. If you see in the microscope that the organelle is bound by membrane then what you’re observing belongs to a eukaryotic cell.
Cell Nucleus – This is considered the brain or information center of a cell. This is where chromosomes are located. It is also within the cell nucleus that RNA synthesis and DNA replication occur. A two-layered membrane, referred to as a nuclear envelope, separates the nucleus from the rest of the cell and protects it from damage.
Mitochondria – This is considered as the powerhouse or power generator of a cell. They vary in number, shape, and size. They produce the necessary energy for cells to continue functioning. In plant cells, chloroplasts take on the role of mitochondria and they’re the ones responsible for photosynthesis.
Endoplasmic Reticulum – They transport molecules to their respective destinations. They may appear smooth or rough. The rougher type has a surface covered with ribosomes.
Ribosomes – Speaking of ribosomes, these are large groups of molecules which may or may not be attached to membranes in eukaryotic cells but are unbound in prokaryotic cells.
Lysosomes – Thse are known as suicide bags due to their destructive abilities. These enzymes are, however, kept safely within membrane-covered systems.
Centrosomes – These manufacture microtubules for a cell and are one of the vital parts of the cytoskeleton. They are made of a pair of centrioles, but these separate during mitosis.
Vacuoles – Lastly, we come to the storage unit of cells. Besides storing food and waste, they also keep extra recesses of water.
