Electric field-induced effects on yeast cell wall permeabilization

The permeability of the yeast cells (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) to lipophilic tetraphenylphosphonium cations (TPP+) after their treatment with single square‐shaped strong electric field pulses was analyzed. Pulsed electric fields (PEF) with durations from 5 to 150 µs and strengths from 0 to 10 kV/cm were applied to a standard electroporation cuvette filled with the appropriate buffer. The TPP+ absorption process was analyzed using an ion selective microelectrode (ISE) and the plasma membrane permeability was determined by measurements obtained using a calcein blue dye release assay. The viability of the yeast and the inactivation of the cells were determined using the optical absorbance method. The experimental data taken after yeasts were treated with PEF and incubated for 3 min showed an increased uptake of TPP+ by the yeast. This process can be controlled by setting the amplitude and pulse duration of the applied PEF. The kinetics of the TPP+ absorption process is described using the second order absolute rate equation. It was concluded that the changes of the charge on the yeast cell wall, which is the main barrier for TPP+, is due to the poration of the plasma membrane. The applicability of the TPP+ absorption measurements for the analysis of yeast cells electroporation process is also discussed. Bioelectromagnetics. 35:136–144, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.