An improved high-throughput Nile red fluorescence assay for estimating intracellular lipids in a variety of yeast species

► An improved Nile red assay for estimation of intracellular yeast lipid is developed. ► The use of 96-well microplate is high-throughput for screening large sample number. ► No prior cell washing with buffer is needed. ► Dimethyl sulfoxide improves Nile red staining for certain species. ► Kinetic reading allows different yeast strains to reach maximum emission.