Biopolymers and cell. 2009; 25 (4): 290 - 297

 

 

Influence of highly dispersed silica on physiological activity of yeast cells

 

T. V. Krupska, A. A. Turova, V. M. Gun’ko, V. V. Turov

 

Institute of Surface Chemistry NAS of Ukraine 17 General Naumov str., Kyiv, Ukraine, 03680

 

Aim. The influence of two types of colloidal particles, mineral (based on modified nanosilica) and composite (based on starch hydrogels and modified nanosilicas) on the activity of yeast cells was investigated. Methods. The structure of interfacial water layers in the system of yeast cells/nanosilica was studied by NMR spectroscopy in combination with a water freezing technique. Results. It was found that Highly Dispersed Silica (HDS) strongly influences the structure of the interfacial water layers in the dehydrated cells. Conclusions. Modified silica stimulates the vital processes in yeast cells.

 

Keywords: 1H NMR spectroscopy, hydration, unfrozen water, yeast cells.