A semi-automated method for isolating functionally intact mitochondria from cultured cells and tissue biopsies

Anal Biochem. 2013 Dec 1;443(1):66-74. doi: 10.1016/j.ab.2013.08.007. Epub 2013 Aug 19.

Abstract

Mitochondrial dysfunctions decisively contribute to the progression of human diseases, implying that functional tests of isolated mitochondria may furnish conclusive information for diagnosis and therapy. Classical mitochondrial isolation methods, however, lack precisely adjustable settings for cell rupture, which is the most critical step in this procedure, and this complicates subsequent analyses. Here, we present an efficient method to isolate functionally active, intact mitochondria from cultured or primary cells and minute tissue samples in a rapid, highly reproducible manner.

Keywords: Balch homogenizer; Biopsies; Cell culture; Mitochondria.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Automation, Laboratory
  • Biomarkers / metabolism
  • Cell Fractionation
  • Cell Line, Tumor
  • Hepatocytes / metabolism
  • Hepatocytes / ultrastructure*
  • Humans
  • Mice
  • Mice, Inbred C57BL
  • Mitochondria, Liver / metabolism
  • Mitochondria, Liver / ultrastructure*
  • Neurons / metabolism
  • Neurons / ultrastructure*
  • Primary Cell Culture
  • Rats
  • Rats, Inbred BUF
  • Rats, Inbred WKY

Substances

  • Biomarkers