Microcentrifuge tubes, also known as Eppendorf tubes or microfuge tubes, are workhorses in the world of molecular biology and biochemistry. Their small size and conical bottoms make them ideal for handling and processing small volumes of liquids (typically from 0.5 mL to 2 mL). Here's a detailed breakdown of their key uses:

Sample Handling and Storage

l Preparing Samples: Microcentrifuge tubes are convenient for mixing and preparing biological samples like DNA, RNA, proteins, and cell lysates. Their small size minimizes waste and allows for efficient use of precious samples.

l Storing Samples: They provide secure containers for short-term storage of samples at room temperature or even at -20°C for longer preservation. Some tubes are certified RNase-, DNase-, and pyrogen-free to minimize contamination risks for sensitive samples.

l Transporting Samples: Microcentrifuge tubes with secure snap caps are perfect for transporting samples within a lab or even to another facility. Their small size makes them easy to pack and minimizes the risk of spills.

Centrifugation Applications

l Pelleting Precipitates: A key role of microcentrifuge tubes is their use in conjunction with microcentrifuges. Centrifugation forces act on the sample in the tube, separating components based on their size and density. Microtubes are ideal for pelleting precipitates, such as collecting cells after centrifugation or isolating proteins. The conical bottom concentrates the pellet at the bottom of the tube for easy retrieval.

l Clarifying Lysates: Centrifugation can also be used to clarify cell lysates (broken down cells) by spinning out cell debris. This is crucial for downstream applications where you only need the soluble cellular components.

l Separating Mixtures: Microcentrifuges and microtubes can be used for various separation techniques like separating DNA fragments of different sizes or isolating viruses from a liquid suspension.

Other Usages

l Holding Reagents: Microcentrifuge tubes are handy for storing and dispensing small volumes of reagents used in experiments. They come pre-sterilized for applications requiring sterile conditions.

l Mixing Reactions: The small size and conical bottom facilitate efficient mixing of samples and reagents using a vortex mixer.

l Boiling or Autoclaving: Some microcentrifuge tubes are specifically designed to withstand high temperatures and can be used for boiling samples or autoclaving for sterilization (depending on the material).

Things to Consider When Using Microcentrifuge Tubes

l Volume: Choose the appropriate size tube based on your sample volume.

l Sterility: Opt for sterile tubes for applications requiring aseptic conditions.

l Chemical Compatibility: Ensure the tube material is compatible with the chemicals you're using.

l Single-Use vs. Reuse: While technically single-use, tubes can be reused if undamaged and non-contaminated. However, weigh cost savings against potential contamination risks.

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