Densitetsgradientcentrifugering

Densitetsgradientcentrifugering, also known as density gradient centrifugation, is a laboratory technique used to separate biological particles such as cells, organelles, and viruses based on their density. This method involves the use of a density gradient, which is a solution with a gradually increasing density from one end to the other. The sample is layered onto the gradient and then centrifuged. During centrifugation, the particles migrate through the gradient and settle at a position where their density matches that of the surrounding medium. This technique is widely used in molecular biology, cell biology, and virology for purification and analysis of biological samples. The most common types of density gradients used are sucrose gradients and cesium chloride gradients. Sucrose gradients are commonly used for separating ribosomes and other RNA-containing particles, while cesium chloride gradients are often used for purifying DNA and RNA. The technique allows for the separation of particles based on their size, shape, and density, making it a valuable tool in the study of biological systems.