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Non-invasive, electro-orientation-based viability assay using optically transparent electrodes for individual fission
Minoru Suga1, Aya Kunimoto1, Hiroaki Shinohara1
1Graduate School of Science and Engineering, University of Toyama, 3190 Gofuku Toyama-City, Toyama 930-8555, Japan.
Biosensors & Bioelectronics
|May 30, 2017
Summary
This study introduces a novel, reagent-free method to assess yeast cell viability using electro-orientation (EO) in an electric field. The technique distinguishes live from dead cells by observing their distinct orientation behaviors, enabling simple and accurate single-cell analysis.
Area of Science:
- Biophysics
- Cell Biology
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Assessing cell viability is crucial in biological research and diagnostics.
- Traditional methods often require reagents and can be time-consuming.
- A need exists for rapid, non-invasive, and label-free viability assays.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a non-invasive, reagent-free assay for determining yeast cell viability.
- To utilize electro-orientation (EO) in an alternating electric field for viability assessment.
- To enable single-cell level analysis of cell viability based on distinct cellular responses.
Main Methods:
- A microfluidic device with indium-tin-oxide (ITO) electrodes was used to confine yeast cell suspensions.
- Alternating current (AC) voltage at 10 MHz and 1.5V was applied across the electrodes.
- Cellular orientation (standing or lain-down position) under the electric field was observed using light microscopy.
Main Results:
- Living yeast cells rapidly adopted an upright, circular 'standing' position when subjected to the electric field.
- Dead yeast cells adopted a flat, elongated 'lain-down' position within 10 seconds.
- The observed EO behaviors correlated well with results from traditional fluorescence staining viability assays.
Conclusions:
- Electro-orientation provides a simple, accurate, and label-free method for assessing yeast cell viability at the single-cell level.
- This technique eliminates the need for reagents and complex sample preparation.
- The developed assay offers a promising alternative for rapid cell viability determination in various applications.
