What is the function of an autoclave in biotechnology?

An autoclave plays a critical role in biotechnology by serving primarily as a sterilization device. Its function is to use high-pressure steam, typically at temperatures of 121 degrees Celsius or higher, to eradicate microbial contaminants, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and spores, from laboratory equipment, media, and instruments. This process is essential in preventing contamination and ensuring that experimental results are valid and reliable.

Effective sterilization is crucial for maintaining aseptic conditions, which is vital in biotechnological applications where the growth of unwanted microorganisms could compromise experiments, cultures, or product integrity. While extracting proteins, growing bacterial cultures, and measuring molecular weights are important tasks in biotechnology, they do not involve sterilization directly, making the autoclave's function distinct and specialized in ensuring a contamination-free environment for various applications.