Cytoplazmaszennyezdés

Cytoplazmaszennyezdés, also known as cytoplasmic contamination, refers to the unintended presence of foreign genetic material within the cytoplasm of a cell. This can occur through various mechanisms, including faulty microinjection, accidental transfer of cellular components, or the use of contaminated reagents during experimental procedures. The most common scenario where this term is encountered is in the context of assisted reproductive technologies, such as the creation of genetically modified animals or the use of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).

In ICSI, a single sperm is injected directly into an egg. If the injection pipette or the sperm itself carries contaminants, such as DNA from another cell or even RNA, this foreign material can end up in the egg's cytoplasm. Similarly, in the creation of genetically modified organisms, if the DNA intended for introduction is not pure or if the microinjection process is not meticulously performed, cytoplasmic contamination can arise.

The consequences of cytoplazmaszennyezdés can range from negligible to severe. Mild contamination might have no observable effect on the cell's development or function. However, significant contamination with functional genetic material could disrupt normal cellular processes, lead to developmental abnormalities, or even result in the death of the cell. Careful technique, sterile procedures, and rigorous quality control of all reagents are crucial to minimize the risk of cytoplazmaszennyezdés in relevant scientific and medical applications.