Study of the Structure and Function of Mitochondria

SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS/PROCESSES

• Study mitochondria in living plant cells
• Observe mitochondria oxidize food microscopically
• Understand the relationship of cytoplasm particles as centers of enzyme activity - the “energy producers” in cells

This unique kit uses celery to vividly present the study of mitochondria to your students. Normal preparation methods tend to destroy the mitochondria. The LAB-AIDS® method utilizes a special stain that acts as a hydrogen acceptor. Students “observe” mitochondria oxidizing food. The stain on the slides gradually loses color as hydrogen is removed.

In this activity, students prepare microscope slides and observe mitochondria, both as cytoplasmic particles and as centers of enzyme activity - the “energy producers” in cells. Very fresh celery and microscopes, required for this activity, are not provided.

Contents List

• 1 Teachers Guide with MSDS
• 30 Student Worksheets and Guides
• 30 Microscope slides
• 30 Cover slips
• 30 Single-edge razor blades
• 1 Absorbent paper strips, pkg
• 1 Toothpicks, plastic, packet

Drop Control Bottles:

• 3 Janus Green B stain
• 3 Sodium bisulfate solution
• 2 Sucrose solution