Cell lysis, also known as cellular disruption, is a crucial process in molecular biology and biotechnology. It involves breaking down the cell membrane to release intracellular materials such as DNA, RNA, proteins, and organelles. This process is essential for various applications, including genetic analysis, protein extraction, and drug development. There are several methods for cell lysis, broadly categorized into physical, chemical, and enzymatic techniques. Physical methods include mechanical disruption using bead mills, sonication, or high-pressure homogenization. These techniques apply shear forces to break the cell membrane. Chemical methods involve the use of detergents or chaotropic agents that solubilize the membrane lipids, effectively disrupting the cell. Enzymatic methods use specific enzymes like lysozyme to degrade the cell wall, particularly in bacteria. Each method has its advantages and limitations. For instance, mechanical methods are effective for large-scale disruption but can generate heat, potentially denaturing sensitive biomolecules. Chemical methods are gentle but may require extensive optimization to avoid interfering with downstream applications. Enzymatic methods are highly specific but can be costly and time-consuming.