Dynamic DNA: Some Facts About Cells
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 Labs’ staff have been working for over 30 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 for a blog, we can offer you a few basic and, perhaps, fun facts. Read on to learn about cells.
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.
There Are Two Primary Types of Cells
- Eukaryotic Cells - These have a true nucleus that is enclosed within a membrane. Animals, plants, fungi, and protists are organisms that contain eukaryotic cells
- Prokaryotic Cells - These have a nucleus not enclosed in a membrane. Bacteria contain prokaryotic cells.
You Have More Bacterial Cells than Human Cells
Scientists have estimated that roughly 95 percent of all cells in the body are bacteria. The vast majority of these microbes can be found in the digestive tract. Billions of bacteria also live on the skin.
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.
Cells Have Varying Lifespans
Cells within the human body have different lifespans based on the type and function of the cell. Cells can live anywhere from a few days to a year. Certain cells of the digestive tract live for just a few days. Some cells of the immune system live about six weeks, and pancreatic cells can live as long as a year.
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. A cell’s inability to undergo apoptosis can result in the development of cancer.
Service and Research at Dynamic DNA Labs
At Dynamic DNA Labs, DNA testing is not our only service. We are experts in the fields of cellular, molecular, and microbiology. Our experts have been published in multiple scientific journals and are here to meet your needs. If you have questions about how Dynamic DNA Labs can assist you, please visit our website today.
