Characterization of Yeast Species Using Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering

Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) is used for the characterization of six yeast species and six isolates. The sample for SERS analysis is prepared by mixing the yeast cells with a four times concentrated silver colloidal suspension. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images show that the strength of the interaction between silver nanoparticles and the yeast cells depends on the biochemical structure of the cell wall. The SERS spectra are used to identify the biochemical structures on the yeast cell wall. It is found that the density of –SH and –NH₂ groups might be higher on certain yeast cell walls. Finally, the obtained SERS spectra from yeast is used for the classification of the yeast.