LAUSR

OBJECTIVES This study aimed at investigating the enzyme activities and ion concentrations in potential pathogen S.cerevisiae upon ultrasonic treatment. METHODS The activities of ATPase and antioxidase were identified by ATPase, SOD, and CAT assay kits following the instructions. Extracellular Ca2+ and K+ concentrations were determined in an atomic absorption spectrometer with calcium and potassium hollow-cathode lamps as radiation sources. RESULTS SOD and CAT activities were enhanced by relatively low ultrasonic power at early time points and reduced to lower levels. Total ATPase, Na+/K+-ATPase, and Ca2+/Mg2+-ATPase activities were reduced by ultrasonic field, with higher reducing rate at stronger ultrasonic power and early time points. In addition, ultrasonic field disturbed the Ca2+ and K+ balances in S.cerevisiae cells. CONCLUSIONS Ultrasonic field resulted in the reduce even the lost of S.cerevisiae cell viability.