Reliable replicative lifespan determination of yeast with a single-channel microfluidic chip.

Valentina Salzman, Moises R Bustamante Torres, Francisco G Correa Tedesco, Nahuel Tarkowski, María J Godás Willems, Joaquín N Bravo, Magalí Mercuri, Dante G Mercado, Guido Berlin, Martín G Bellino, Pablo S Aguilar, Laura C Estrada

Instituto de Fisiología, Biología Molecular y Neurociencias (IFIBYNE), CONICET. Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1428EGA,Argentina. · pubmed

Paper

Abstract

Saccharomyces cerevisiae is a powerful model for aging research due to its short lifespan and genetic malleability. Microfluidic devices offer an attractive approach enabling rapid monitoring of hundreds of cells during their entire replicative lifespan (RLS). Yet, key operational issues such as contaminations, cell loss, and cell-aggregates-dependent flow obstruction can hinder RLS experiments. We report the development of a microfluidic device configuration that effectively prevents flow blockage. We conducted comprehensive performance characterization, evaluating trapping efficiency, cell retention, budding orientation, and cell aggregate formation. The optimized device successfully supported long-term culturing and reliable RLS measurements of budding yeast strains. For accurate lifespan determination, a detailed workflow is provided that includes device fabrication, live microscopy setup, and characterization of cell age distribution. This work describes an accessible and reliable microfluidic device for yeast RLS studies, promoting further exploration in aging research.

The following analysis is generated by AI and may contain errors. It is separate from the authors’ abstract and is not peer review.

Research summary

The paper presents a novel microfluidic device for studying the replicative lifespan of yeast, which is a relevant model organism in aging research. However, while it addresses operational challenges in lifespan measurement, the findings are more of a technical advancement rather than a significant breakthrough in understanding the mechanisms of aging or lifespan extension. Thus, it contributes solidly to the field but does not introduce transformative insights.

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