# Screening Method for the Selection of Oleaginous Yeast-Producing Gold Nanoparticles

## TL;DR

This study developed a fast method to find yeast strains that can make gold nanoparticles, offering a green alternative for industrial use.

## Contribution

A rapid screening method for identifying oleaginous yeast capable of producing gold nanoparticles is introduced.

## Key findings

- 20 yeast strains were identified as effective in synthesizing gold nanoparticles.
- Electron microscopy revealed intracellular and extracellular nanoparticles with varied size and shape.
- The method provides a foundation for scaling up nanoparticle production.

## Abstract

The demand for eco-friendly nanomaterial synthesis has increased interest in biological approaches. Yeast-mediated biosynthesis of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) offers a sustainable alternative with potential biotechnological applications. This study developed a rapid screening method to identify oleaginous yeast strains able to synthesize AuNPs. A collection of 114 oleaginous yeasts from the LIBBA laboratory was screened. UV–Vis spectroscopy at 530–560 nm was used to assess nanoparticle formation, identifying 20 strains that effectively synthesize AuNP. Electron microscopy confirmed the presence of intracellular and extracellular nanoparticles, with variations in size and morphology. This screening and optimization approach effectively identified promising yeast candidates and refined biosynthesis conditions, providing a foundation for industrial-scale nanoparticle production.