Question:

Cell fusion is an innovative method of preparing specific antibodies. Techniques to induce cell fusion include all of the following EXCEPT:

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Recall the three real fusogens: virus, chemical (PEG), and electric pulse.
Updated On: Jun 24, 2026
  • Attaching inactive viral particles on the cell membrane
  • Adding ethylene glycol
  • Applying a small electric current
  • Reducing the viscosity of the membrane
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Cell fusion (used to make hybridomas for monoclonal antibodies) requires bringing two plasma membranes close together and destabilising them so they merge.
Step 2: Recognised methods include: inactivated fusogenic viruses such as Sendai virus on the membrane (true), chemical fusogens like polyethylene glycol / ethylene glycol that dehydrate and bridge the membranes (true), and electrofusion using a brief electric pulse (electroporation-type current) (true).
Step 3: Reducing the viscosity of the membrane is not a standard fusion-inducing technique; fusogens actually work by perturbing and bringing membranes together, not by simply lowering membrane viscosity, so this statement is the exception.
Step 4: Hence the false (except) option is reducing the viscosity of the membrane.
Conclusion: The answer is reducing the viscosity of the membrane, option D, matching the printed key.
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