Rapid and direct magnetization of GFP-reporter yeast for micro-screening systems

Abstract

Saccharomyces cerevisiae containing fluorescent markers are ideal candidates for applications in microfluidic screening systems as fluorescence signal is emitted without the need of additional reagents. Here we develop a method for magnetic functionalisation of such cells which allows their handling and immobilization in micro-screening devices. After exposure of the magnetized GFP-reporter yeast (GreenScreen™) to a genotoxic compound, the fluorescence emission was detected using fluorescent spectrometer and an Epi-fluorescent microscope. Results demonstrate that GFP production and fluorescence emission is not altered by their magnetic functionalization, indicating its potential employment on biosensors, bioreactors and micro-screening studies. © 2009 Elsevier B.V.