Dynamic DNA Labs Looks at Some Facts About Cells

At Dynamic DNA Labs, we offer more than just DNA testing. In fact, we have a wide range of processes and research we can perform for you. Dynamic DNA’s staff have been working for over 35 years in research, testing, pathology, and crime laboratories. We are expertly trained in any of your cellular, molecular, and microbiological needs. At Dynamic DNA Labs, our experts know a thing or two about cells. While cellular biology is a pretty complex field of study, we are here to educate you on a few of the basics plus some fun facts.

You Can’t See Them Without Magnification

The study of cells would not have been possible without the invention of the microscope. Cells range in size from 1 to 100 micrometers. The first cell seen under a microscope was that of a cork, comprised of dead plant cells, by Robert Hooke in 1665. With today’s advanced microscopes, such as the scanning electron microscope, cell biologists are able to obtain detailed images of the smallest cell structures. The current best estimate is that the average body contains about 37.2 trillion human cells.

Fun Fact: There are about 372 times as many cells making just one body than there are stars in our home galaxy, the Milky Way.

There Are Two Primary Types of Cells

• Eukaryotic Cells

  • These have a true nucleus that is enclosed within a membrane. The nucleus is known as the control center and is where most cells keep their DNA safely locked. Humans, animals, plants, yeast, fungi, and protists are organisms that contain eukaryotic cells.

• Prokaryotic Cells

  • These have a nucleus not enclosed in a membrane. These cells help play a critical role in the recycling of nutrients by decomposing dead organisms and allowing their nutrients to be re-used. Bacteria contain prokaryotic cells.

Fun Fact: Viruses are not cells and thus are neither a prokaryote nor a eukaryote.

Bacterial Cells vs. Human Cells in Your Body

Scientists have estimated that roughly 56% of the cells in your body are bacterial, while 44% are human. Many of these microbes can be found in the digestive tract. Billions of bacteria also live on the skin and mouth.  These bacterial cells are responsible for the breakdown of food your large intestine (colon), for making vital nutrients like vitamin B and K, and for populating good bacteria that help prevent harmful microbes from growing and from making you sick.

Cells Can Clone Themselves

Most prokaryotic cells replicate by a process called binary fission. This is a type of cloning process in which two identical cells are derived from a single cell. Eukaryotic cells are also capable of reproducing asexually through a process called mitosis.

Fun fact: Every single day, your body replaces about 330 billion cells. Most of these are blood cells and skin cells.

Cells Have Varying Lifespans

Cells within the human body have different lifespans based on the type and function of the cell and exposure to damage. Cells can live anywhere from a few days to a year. Certain cells of the digestive tract live for just a few days as they face harsh digestive acids. White blood cells die quickly fighting off infections. Red blood cells can live up to 120 days. They travel roughly 300 miles through tight blood vessels before wearing out. Muscle cells like those found in the heart can live for many decades. Only a small percentage are replaced during your lifetime.

Fun Fact: Most brain cells (neurons) last your whole life because they rarely divide after birth.

How Long Can DNA Remain Stable

We can store DNA for thousands of years under adequate conditions.

DNA inside living cells stays stable for a lifetime if it is kept in cold temperatures, protected from moisture, sunlight, oxygen, and microbes that can break it down.

Even after a cell dies, its DNA doesn't disappear immediately. If dead cells are kept in cool, dry, and stable conditions, the DNA inside them can remain intact for a very long time. Dried biological samples—such as bones, teeth, and hair roots—can preserve DNA for decades, centuries, or even thousands of years when stored in dry, dark, and cool environments.

Cells Can Self-Destruct

When a cell becomes damaged or undergoes some types of infection, it will self-destruct by a process called apoptosis. Apoptosis works to ensure proper development and to keep the body’s natural process of mitosis in check. Cells destroy themselves if their DNA becomes too damaged. Virus-infected cells may self-destruct to stop the virus from spreading to neighboring cells. Not every infected cell does. A cell’s inability to undergo apoptosis can result in the development of cancer.

Fun Fact: Roughly 800,000 cells undergo programmed cell death every second.

Service and Research at Dynamic DNA Labs

At Dynamic DNA Labs, DNA testing is just one of the many services we provide. Our team specializes in cellular biology, molecular biology, and microbiology, with decades of combined experience in research and laboratory testing. Our scientists have contributed to multiple peer-reviewed scientific publications and are committed to providing accurate, high-quality laboratory services.

Whether you need DNA testing, molecular analysis, microbiology services, or specialized laboratory support, we're here to help. Visit our website to learn more about how Dynamic DNA Labs can meet your testing and research needs.