Cell Communication Lab

CELL COMMUNICATIONS!

As the name implies, cell communication involves cells releasing and receiving signals in order to communicate with one another. In this lab, we studied cell signaling in two strands of yeast. In the first section we observed the mating interaction between a-type and alpha-type yeast.

So first, we got a hold of all the materials which includes, the dishes, both types of yeast cells, applicators, test tubes and a microscope. We labeled each dish, "A-type", "Alpha Type" and "Mixed type". This was going to be used later on, when we left the yeast cells over night in an incubator and saw how they grew the next day. Next, we obtained the test tubes and filled them with 2mL of sterile water. After, we used the applicators to scrape a pea-sized clump of the yeast cells corresponding to each test tube. Then, we put the applicators into the test tubes and stirred it in the solution. 

Now, the labeled dishes came in handy. We took the solution with the yeast cells, and transferred a few drops into the dish with a pipet. As said before, this was put in the incubator over night.The next day, we took the dishes out of the incubator which was at 37 degrees Celsius and swapped the yeast cells on a glass slide to see under the microscope. Next, we had to take pictures of three areas and fill out our data chart. Sadly, when we were done with the whole experiment... We had to euthanize the yeast cells. Each group played a inspirational song for a tribute to their short-lived friends.




We learned a lot from this lab, especially some key critical points of knowledge. We noticed that yeast grow in the direction of their mates, but cannot walk or swim. This means that they have to use their cell receptors in order to sense their mate's pheromones. After this, they literally grow in the direction of their mate in order to proceed with reproduction.

Our Results

In this lab, we learned how cells communicate with each via signaling molecules and proteins on the cell surface. Specifically, type alpha and a yeast will combine to form diploid cells by mitosis. We discovered how cell signaling can take place, even when the cells can not move towards each other, like in the case of our yeast friends. Sadly. We had to put an end out their lives just like how we have to put an end to this lab post. :(