Rapid, Efficient Candida albicans Lysis Comparison Using the Cellometer X2 Fluorescent Cell Viability Counter

Abstract

Cell lysis is essential for extracting intake genetic material, forming the basis for diagnostic tests, and genetic studies. Commonly used lysis methods include thermal lysis, mechanical force, chemicals, biologicals, and sonication. Determining effective lysis methods for specific cell types is crucial for conducting further research. This study evaluates the lysis efficiency of Candida albicans using the Cellometer X2 fluorescent cell viability counter, employing various lysis methods: thermal, chemical, and enzymatic. Our results indicate that high-pH buffers combined with heat treatment enhance lysis efficiency, while SDS alone or with Proteinase K is insufficient for lysis at room temperature. In contrast, Zymolyase effectively lyses C. albicans at room temperature in 150 minutes, making the automation of room temperature lysis and nucleic acid purification feasible for C. albicans. Overall, this study highlights the Cellometer X2s capability for rapid and direct evaluation of cell lysis efficiency.