Dielectric double shell characterization of yeast cells exposed to simulated microgravity

Microgravity alters key biological processes, impacting cellular structure, function, and metabolism. In the absence of gravity, cells experience changes that disrupt signal transduction, gene expression, and metabolic pathways, affecting growth rates and cellular viability. Ground-based simulators like clinostats replicate microgravity conditions to study these effects, allowing researchers to examine cellular responses in the lab. This study uses Saccharomyces cerevisiae to explore microgravity's impact on yeast metabolism and properties. Yeast cells are exposed to simulated microgravity via a 2D-clinostat and analyzed using dielectrophoresis over 1-24 h. A double-shell model reveals significant morphological and membrane changes under these conditions. Results indicate notable differences in membrane permittivity and conductivity, with microgravity reducing the folding factor in yeast cells, impairing nutrient uptake and energy production. This research enhances the understanding of microgravity's effects on eukaryotic cells and contributes to the field of gravitational biology.