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Published on: May 30, 2014
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Microplate-Based Cell Viability Assay as a Cost-Effective Alternative to Flow Cytometry for Microalgae Analysis
Diyuan Wang1, Francis L de Los Reyes1, Joel J Ducoste1
1Department of Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27606, United States.
Environmental Science & Technology
|December 4, 2023
Summary
New microplate assays offer a low-cost, simple method for assessing microalgae cell viability, crucial for biorefinery and bioremediation applications. This technique provides reliable results comparable to expensive flow cytometry.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Microalgae Cultivation
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Cell viability is essential for microalgae cultivation in biorefineries and bioremediation.
- Current flow cytometry methods for viability assessment are expensive and impractical for industrial use.
- Development of cost-effective and accessible viability assays is needed.
Approach:
- Developed novel microplate assays using fluorescein diacetate (live stain) and erythrosine B (dead stain).
- Validated assays by monitoring *Dunaliella viridis* viability under nutrient stress, comparing results with flow cytometry.
- Systematically investigated assay parameters: dye concentration, incubation time, and background fluorescence.
Key Points:
- Microplate assays provide a low-cost, simple, and reliable alternative to flow cytometry for microalgae viability.
- Assays accurately tracked *Dunaliella viridis* viability under carbon and nitrogen limitation.
- Comprehensive review of microalgae staining dyes and protocol optimization strategies included.
Conclusions:
- The developed microplate assays are suitable for industrial applications in microalgae cultivation.
- This method offers valuable insights for future microalgae viability assessments and applications.
- Provides a practical tool for quality control in biorefinery and bioremediation processes.
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