Question

The most likely method, used to determine the ultrastructure of a cell organelle is (a) autoradiography (b) microdissection (c) electron microscopy (d) phase contrast microscopy.

Short answer

The most likely method used to determine the ultrastructure of a cell organelle is (c) electron microscopy.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Ultrastructure

The ultrastructure of a cell refers to the fine details of its internal components, such as organelles. When determining such fine details, we require a method that allows us to view structures at the molecular level.

Analyzing the Options

Autoradiography is a technique that uses radioactive isotopes to track substances within a cell. Microdissection involves cutting and manipulating microscopic structures. Phase contrast microscopy enhances contrast in transparent specimens without using dyes, but does not have the resolving power necessary for ultrastructural analysis. Electron microscopy uses a beam of electrons to create an image of the specimen and can reveal the ultrastructure of cell organelles with great detail.

Identifying the Correct Method

To determine the ultrastructure of a cell organelle, the technique that provides the highest resolution and magnification is required. Electron microscopy is capable of this, as it can visualize structures down to the level of a few nanometers.

Key concepts

Electron Microscopy

Electron microscopy stands as a pivotal technique in unveiling the ultrastructure of cell organelles. Unlike traditional light microscopy, which is limited by the wavelength of light, electron microscopes use beams of electrons that have much shorter wavelengths. This allows them to achieve much higher resolutions, enabling scientists to observe structures at the nanometer scale.

Electron microscopy encompasses different types such as transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). TEM allows the visualization of the internal structure of cells, making it an invaluable tool for examining organelles, while SEM gives a detailed topographical map of the cell's surface. By employing this method, researchers can discern the intricate layouts of cellular components, which is critical for understanding their function and pathology.

Due to its high resolution, it is the preferred choice when studying the ultrastructure of cell organelles, providing unparalleled insights into the cell's internal framework.

Cell Biology

Cell biology delves into the study of cell structure and function, offering an extensive understanding of the processes that take place within this smallest unit of life. Organelles, the diverse structures within the cell, each perform specific roles vital for the cell's survival and operation. For example, mitochondria are the cell's powerhouses, generating energy, while the Golgi apparatus packages and distributes proteins.

The ultrastructure of these organelles is critical as it is intimately linked with their functions. By employing techniques such as electron microscopy, cell biologists can scrutinize these organelles at a molecular level. Gaining insights into their ultrastructure enhances our understanding of cellular processes such as energy production, protein synthesis, and waste removal, and sheds light on how malfunctions in these processes can lead to disease.

Molecular Biology

Molecular biology is the branch that bridges genetics and biochemistry, focusing on the molecular mechanisms that govern the function and replication of living organisms. It delves into the study of DNA, RNA, proteins, and other macromolecules involved in genetic information and cellular activity.

Understanding the ultrastructure of organelles is essential in molecular biology since it can influence gene expression and protein interactions. For instance, the arrangement of nucleosomes in the nucleus can affect how genes are accessed and expressed. The structure of ribosomes is also paramount in decoding mRNA sequences into polypeptides. Tools like electron microscopy are indispensable in molecular biology for visualizing and understanding the spatial relationships and detailed structures within the cell that ultimately guide these molecular processes. By dissecting the form and arrangement of cellular components, molecular biologists can piece together how structure influences function at a fundamental level.