Microsome

In cell biology, a microsome is a small vesicle that is derived from fragmented endoplasmic reticulum produced when cells are homogenized.

Purified microsome preparations are routinely used to study the role of cytochrome P450s and other enzymes involved in drug metabolism. These preparations are a rich source of membrane-bound, hydrophobic enzymes originating from smooth endoplasmic reticulum and rough endoplasmic reticulum that catalyze phase I reactions of metabolism.

See also

• S9 fraction (postmitochondrial fraction).