Multisample Enzyme Extraction from Cultured Plant Cell Suspensions

Operational and constructional details are given of an apparatus which permits simultaneous enzyme extraction from up to 16 cell samples under standardized conditions. The main advantages of the method are: (a) individual samples remain in the same container throughout the whole operation; (b) the samples can be stirred continuously and uniformly during extraction; (c) rapid changes of extractant are facilitated by a simple draining operation; (d) the extraction temperature can be strictly controlled. The method is rapid, efficient, and reproducible in extracting a number of enzymes from cultured rose cells. Other uses of the apparatus are discussed, particularly in relation to the extraction of protein, nucleic acids, and some low molecular weight materials.