Simple optical analysis of viability of fission yeast based on electro-orientation with transparent electrodes

Rapid and easy viability assays of microorganisms are important for the efficient control of fermentation processes. A simple optical analysis system for viability assay of cylindrical fission yeast cells was developed to accurately measure the transmittance changes from electro-orientation (EO) of the cells in an alternating current electric field without a microscope. A single incident light beam was directed vertically through the horizontally placed optically transparent indium-tin-oxide plate electrodes. Transmittance was enhanced distinctly when cells oriented from perpendicular (elongated shape) to parallel (circular shape) to the direction of the light beam due to a decrease in the projected area of the cell shape. Transmittance of each living and dead cell suspension was different with respect to the frequency. Survival rate was readily estimated by measuring three transmittance (T) values at specific frequencies. Initial T0 was obtained without the application of an electric field, as all cells were elongated in shape. Maximum T1 was achieved at 500 kHz, as all cells were circular in shape. T2 was changed between T0 and T1 at 10 MHz, which was dependent on the circular shape of the living cells. This EO-optical method offers a rapid and easy process for viability assessment of non-spherical cells without a calibration curve. [Display omitted] •An optical viability assay of cylindrical yeast cells using electro-orientation (EO).•Simple apparatus consists of a single light beam and transparent electrodes.•Transmittance was enhanced with the circular shapes of the cells induced by EO.•Survival rate was estimated by the transmittance changes at specific frequencies.