We have a lexA.lacZ reporter in our yeast strain which we want to test for translation of beta-galactosidase when we stress the cells (heat, osmotic imbalance, etc.), but we're unsure how to.

We started off using X-gal, and poured a solution of X-gal and DMSO on top of an agar plate of streaked cells. We also added X-gal to a liquid culture, both put into 37^C , but nothing has worked and we do not see any blue colonies.

Online, it seems the only way to use X-gal on yeast is filter lift and freeze with liquid nitrogen, which is something we don't have access too.

Does anyone have any advice? Should we use OPNG instead, and whats the standard protocol?

Thank you!