Temperature profiles of yeasts

Schrödinger's yeast: the challenge of using transformation to compare fitness among Saccharomyces cerevisiae that differ in ploidy or zygosity

How the number of genome copies modifies the effect of random mutations remains poorly known. In yeast, researchers have investigated these effects for knock-out or other large-effect mutations, but have not accounted for differences at the mating-type locus. We set out to compare fitness differences among strains that differ in ploidy and/or zygosity using a panel of spontaneously arising mutations acquired in haploid yeast from a previous study. To ensure no genetic differences, even at the mating-type locus, we embarked on a series of transformations, which first sterilized and then temporarily introduced plasmid-borne mating types. Despite these attempts to equalize the haplotypes, fitness variation introduced during transformation swamped the differences among the original mutation-accumulation lines. While colony size looked normal, we observed a bi-modality in the maximum growth rate of our transformed yeast and determined that many of the slow growing lines were respiratory deficient ("petite"). Not previously reported, we found that yeast that were TID1/RDH54 knockouts were less likely to become petite. Even for lines with the same petite status, however, we found no correlation in fitness between the two replicate transformations performed. These results pose a challenge for any study using transformation to measure the fitness effect of genetic differences among strains. By attempting to hold haplotypes constant, we introduced more mutations that overwhelmed our ability to measure fitness differences between the genetic states. In this study, we transformed over one hundred different lines of yeast, using two independent transformations, and found that this common laboratory procedure can cause large changes to the microbe studied. Our study provides a cautionary tale of the need to use multiple transformants in fitness assays.

Impact of Different Drying Methods on the Microbiota, Volatilome, Color, and Sensory Traits of Sea Fennel (Crithmum maritimum L.) Leaves

Sea fennel (Crithmum maritimum L.) is a strongly aromatic herb of the Apiaceae family, whose full exploitation by the modern food industry is of growing interest. This study aimed at investigating the microbiological quality, volatile profile, and sensory traits of sea fennel spices produced using room-temperature drying, oven drying, microwave drying, and freeze drying. All the assayed methods were able to remove moisture up until water activity values below 0.6 were reached; however, except for microwave drying, none of the assayed methods were effective in reducing the loads of contaminating microorganisms. The metataxonomic analysis highlighted the presence of phytopathogens and even human pathogens, including members of the genera Bacillus, Pseudomonas, Alternaria, and Cryptococcus. When compared to fresh leaves, dried leaves showed increased L* (lightness) and c* (chroma, saturation) values and reduced hue angle. Dried leaves were also characterized by decreased levels of terpene hydrocarbons and increased levels of aldehydes, alcohols, and esters. For the sensory test, the microwave-dried samples obtained the highest appreciation by the trained panel. Overall, the collected data indicated microwave drying as the best option for producing sea fennel spices with low microbial loads, brilliant green color, and high-quality sensory traits.

Assessing chronological aging in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Chronological age represents the time that passes between birth and a given date. To understand the complex network of factors contributing to chronological lifespan, a variety of model organisms have been implemented. One of the best studied organisms is the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, which has greatly contributed toward identifying conserved biological mechanisms that act on longevity. Here, we discuss high- und low-throughput protocols to monitor and characterize chronological lifespan and chronological aging-associated cell death in S. cerevisiae. Included are propidium iodide staining with the possibility to quantitatively assess aging-associated cell death via flow cytometry or qualitative assessments via microscopy, cell viability assessment through plating and cell counting and cell death characterization via propidium iodide/AnnexinV staining and subsequent flow cytometric analysis or microscopy. Importantly, all of these methods combined give a clear picture of the chronological lifespan under different conditions or genetic backgrounds and represent a starting point for pharmacological or genetic interventions.

Adaptive responses of yeast strains tolerant to acidic pH, acetate, and supraoptimal temperature

Ethanol fermentations can be prematurely halted as Saccharomyces cerevisiae faces adverse conditions, such as acidic pH, presence of acetic acid, and supraoptimal temperatures. The knowledge on yeast responses to these conditions is essential to endowing a tolerant phenotype to another strain by targeted genetic manipulation. In this study, physiological and whole-genome analyses were conducted to obtain insights on molecular responses which potentially render yeast tolerant towards thermoacidic conditions. To this end, we used thermotolerant TTY23, acid tolerant AT22, and thermo-acid tolerant TAT12 strains previously generated by adaptive laboratory evolution (ALE) experiments. The results showed an increase in thermoacidic profiles in the tolerant strains. The whole-genome sequence revealed the importance of genes related to: H⁺, iron, and glycerol transport (i.e., PMA1, FRE1/2, JEN1, VMA2, VCX1, KHA1, AQY3, and ATO2); transcriptional regulation of stress responses to drugs, reactive oxygen species and heat-shock (i.e., HSF1, SKN7, BAS1, HFI1, and WAR1); and adjustments of fermentative growth and stress responses by glucose signaling pathways (i.e., ACS1, GPA1/2, RAS2, IRA2, and REG1). At 30 °C and pH 5.5, more than a thousand differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in each strain. The integration of results revealed that evolved strains adjust their intracellular pH by H⁺ and acetic acid transport, modify their metabolism and stress responses via glucose signaling pathways, control of cellular ATP pools by regulating translation and de novo synthesis of nucleotides, and direct the synthesis, folding and rescue of proteins throughout the heat-shock stress response. Moreover, the motifs analysis in mutated transcription factors suggested a significant association of SFP1, YRR1, BAS1, HFI1, HSF1, and SKN7 TFs with DEGs found in thermoacidic tolerant yeast strains. KEY POINTS: • All the evolved strains overexpressed the plasma membrane H⁺ -ATPase PMA1 at optimal conditions • Tolerant strain TAT12 mutated genes encoding weak acid and heat response TFs HSF1, SKN7, and WAR1 • TFs HSF1 and SKN7 likely controlled the transcription of metabolic genes associated to heat and acid tolerance.

Evolutionary and reverse engineering to increase Saccharomyces cerevisiae tolerance to acetic acid, acidic pH, and high temperature

Saccharomyces cerevisiae scarcely grows on minimal media with acetic acid, acidic pH, and high temperatures. In this study, the adaptive laboratory evolution (ALE), whole-genome analysis, and reverse engineering approaches were used to generate strains tolerant to these conditions. The thermotolerant strain TTY23 and its parental S288C were evolved through 1 year, in increasing concentrations of acetic acid up to 12 g/L, keeping the pH ≤ 4. Of the 18 isolated strains, 9 from each ancestor, we selected the thermo-acid tolerant TAT12, derived from TTY23, and the acid tolerant AT22, derived from S288C. Both grew in minimal media with 12 g/L of acetic acid, pH 4, and 30 °C, and produced ethanol up to 29.25 ± 6 mmol/g_DCW/h-neither of the ancestors thrived in these conditions. Furthermore, only the TAT12 grew on 2 g/L of acetic acid, pH 3, and 37 °C, and accumulated 16.5 ± 0.5 mmol/g_DCW/h of ethanol. Whole-genome sequencing and transcriptomic analysis of this strain showed changes in the genetic sequence and transcription of key genes involved in the RAS-cAMP-PKA signaling pathway (RAS2, GPA2, and IRA2), the heat shock transcription factor (HSF1), and the positive regulator of replication initiation (SUM1), among others. By reverse engineering, the relevance of the combined mutations in the genes RAS2, HSF1, and SUM1 to the tolerance for acetic acid, low pH, and high temperature was confirmed. Alone, the RAS2 mutation yielded acid tolerance and HSF1 nutation thermotolerance. Increasing the thermo-acidic niche and acetic acid tolerance of S. cerevisiae can contribute to improve economic ethanol production. KEY POINTS: • Thermo-acid tolerant (TAT) yeast strains were generated by adaptive laboratory evolution. • The strain TAT12 thrived on non-native, thermo-acidic harmful conditions. • Mutations in RAS2, HSF1, and SUM1 genes rendered yeast thermo and acid tolerant.

Regulation of Cell Death Induced by Acetic Acid in Yeasts

Acetic acid has long been considered a molecule of great interest in the yeast research field. It is mostly recognized as a by-product of alcoholic fermentation or as a product of the metabolism of acetic and lactic acid bacteria, as well as of lignocellulosic biomass pretreatment. High acetic acid levels are commonly associated with arrested fermentations or with utilization as vinegar in the food industry. Due to its obvious interest to industrial processes, research on the mechanisms underlying the impact of acetic acid in yeast cells has been increasing. In the past twenty years, a plethora of studies have addressed the intricate cascade of molecular events involved in cell death induced by acetic acid, which is now considered a model in the yeast regulated cell death field. As such, understanding how acetic acid modulates cellular functions brought about important knowledge on modulable targets not only in biotechnology but also in biomedicine. Here, we performed a comprehensive literature review to compile information from published studies performed with lethal concentrations of acetic acid, which shed light on regulated cell death mechanisms. We present an historical retrospective of research on this topic, first providing an overview of the cell death process induced by acetic acid, including functional and structural alterations, followed by an in-depth description of its pharmacological and genetic regulation. As the mechanistic understanding of regulated cell death is crucial both to design improved biomedical strategies and to develop more robust and resilient yeast strains for industrial applications, acetic acid-induced cell death remains a fruitful and open field of study.

Levaduras adaptadas al frío: el tesoro biotecnológico de la Antártica

Las levaduras son organismos microscópicos que están distribuidos en toda la Tierra, de modo que algunas han adaptado su metabolismo para proliferar en ambientes extremos. Las levaduras que habitan en la Antártica son un grupo de microorganismos adaptados al frío que han sido poco estudiadas. En esta revisión se describen algunas de las adaptaciones metabólicas que les permiten habitar en ambientes extremos, por ejemplo, el de la Antártica. También se abordan las consideraciones relevantes para saber si una levadura es extremófila, así como los criterios utilizados para clasificar a las levaduras por crecimiento y temperatura. Además, se explica el papel de las vías de biosíntesis de carotenoides y lípidos que están involucradas en contrarrestar a las especies reactivas de oxígeno generadas por estrés oxidante en levaduras pigmentadas y oleaginosas del género Rhodotorula. La revisión también considera aspectos de investigación básica y la importancia de las levaduras oleaginosas de la Antártica para el desarrollo de algunas aplicaciones biotecnológicas.

Cellulase immobilized magnetic nanoparticles for green energy production from Allamanda schottii L: Sustainability research in waste recycling

This study presents ethanol's fabrication by fermenting the golden trumpet flower (Allamanda schottii L) with the yeast strain Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The changes in different parameters during fermentation were studied and optimized while producing the ethanol and the end product was subjected to emission test study by blending petrol and ethanol. The Allamanda floral substrate contains 65% polysaccharides. The strain S. cerevisiae was obtained in the form of baker's yeast from a domestic shop. For 100 ml of slurry, the highest bioethanol yield recorded was about 18.75 ml via optimization of different culture conditions, including a 1:8 ratio for slurry preparation, maintained under 35 ⁰C, 5.5 pH, 72 h. old inoculum with a quantity of 3.75 g 100 ml^-1, fermented for120 h. The highest yield of bioethanol was acquired under the addition of urea. This technique & design is capable of industrial-scale fabrication of bioethanol by using A. schottii floral substrates. This research was conducted to fabricate ethanol by fermentation (A. schottii L) floral substrate with S. cerevisiae. The optimum physiochemical parameters required to obtain the highest yield of bioethanol from A. schottii flower by fermentation was studied. The immobilization strategy with a cheap agricultural substrate and magnetic nanoparticles were also studied. The engine performance and emission studies were done with different blends of petrol and bio-ethanol.

Resurrection of inactive microbes and resistome present in the natural frozen world: Reality or myth?

The present world faces a new threat of ancient microbes and resistomes that are locked in the cryosphere and now releasing upon thawing due to climate change and anthropogenic activities. The cryosphere act as the best preserving place for these microbes and resistomes that stay alive for millions of years. Current reviews extensively discussed whether the resurrection of microbes and resistomes existing in these pristine environments is true or just a hype. Release of these ancient microorganisms and naked DNA is of great concern for society as these microbes can either cause infections directly or they can interact with contemporary microorganisms and affect their fitness, survival, and mutation rate. Moreover, the contemporary microorganisms may uptake the unlocked naked DNA, which might transform non-pathogenic microorganisms into deadly antibiotic-resistant microbes. Additionally, the resurrection of glacial microorganisms can cause adverse effects on ecosystems downstream. The release of glacial pathogens and naked DNA is real and can lead to fatal outbreaks; therefore, we must prepare ourselves for the possible reemergence of diseases caused by these microbes. This study provides a scientific base for the adoption of actions by international cooperation to develop preventive measures.

Yeast petites and small colony variants: for everything there is a season

The yeast petite mutant was first found in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The colony is small because of a block in the aerobic respiratory chain pathway, which generates ATP. The petite yeasts are thus unable to grow on nonfermentable carbon sources (such as glycerol or ethanol), and form small anaerobic-sized colonies when grown in the presence of fermentable carbon sources (such as glucose). The petite phenotype results from mutations in the mitochondrial genome, loss of mitochondria, or mutations in the host cell genome. The latter mutations affect nuclear-encoded genes involved in oxidative phosphorylation and these mutants are termed neutral petites. They all produce wild-type progeny when crossed with a wild-type strain. The staphylococcal small colony variant (SCV) is a slow-growing mutant that typically exhibits the loss of many phenotypic characteristics and pathogenic traits. SCVs are mostly small, nonpigmented, and nonhaemolytic. Their small size is often due to an inability to synthesize electron transport chain components and so cannot generate ATP by oxidative phosphorylation. Evidence suggests that they are responsible for persistent and/or recurrent infections. This chapter compares the physiological and genetic basis of the petite mutants and SCVs. The review focuses principally on two representatives, the eukaryote S. cerevisiae and the prokaryote Staphylococcus aureus. There is, clearly, commonality in the physiological response. Interestingly, the similarity, based on their physiological states, has not been commented on previously. The finding of an overlapping physiological response that occurs across a taxonomic divide is novel.

Cell periphery-related proteins as major genomic targets behind the adaptive evolution of an industrial Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain to combined heat and hydrolysate stress

BACKGROUND

Laboratory evolution is an important tool for developing robust yeast strains for bioethanol production since the biological basis behind combined tolerance requires complex alterations whose proper regulation is difficult to achieve by rational metabolic engineering. Previously, we reported on the evolved industrial Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain ISO12 that had acquired improved tolerance to grow and ferment in the presence of lignocellulose-derived inhibitors at high temperature (39 °C). In the current study, we used comparative genomics to uncover the extent of the genomic alterations that occurred during the evolution process and investigated possible associations between the mutations and the phenotypic traits in ISO12.

RESULTS

Through whole-genome sequencing and variant calling we identified a high number of strain-unique SNPs and INDELs in both ISO12 and the parental strain Ethanol Red. The variants were predicted to have 760 non-synonymous effects in both strains combined and were significantly enriched in Gene Ontology terms related to cell periphery, membranes and cell wall. Eleven genes, including MTL1, FLO9/FLO11, and CYC3 were found to be under positive selection in ISO12. Additionally, the FLO genes exhibited changes in copy number, and the alterations to this gene family were correlated with experimental results of multicellularity and invasive growth in the adapted strain. An independent lipidomic analysis revealed further differences between the strains in the content of nine lipid species. Finally, ISO12 displayed improved viability in undiluted spruce hydrolysate that was unrelated to reduction of inhibitors and changes in cell wall integrity, as shown by HPLC and lyticase assays.

CONCLUSIONS

Together, the results of the sequence comparison and the physiological characterisations indicate that cell-periphery proteins (e.g. extracellular sensors such as MTL1) and peripheral lipids/membranes are important evolutionary targets in the process of adaptation to the combined stresses. The capacity of ISO12 to develop complex colony formation also revealed multicellularity as a possible evolutionary strategy to improve competitiveness and tolerance to environmental stresses (also reflected by the FLO genes). Although a panel of altered genes with high relevance to the novel phenotype was detected, this study also demonstrates that the observed long-term molecular effects of thermal and inhibitor stress have polygenetic basis.

Cheese whey: A potential resource to transform into bioprotein, functional/nutritional proteins and bioactive peptides

The byproduct of cheese-producing industries, cheese whey, is considered as an environmental pollutant due to its high BOD and COD concentrations. The high organic load of whey arises from the presence of residual milk nutrients. As demand for milk-derived products is increasing, it leads to increased production of whey, which poses a serious management problem. To overcome this problem, various technological approaches have been employed to convert whey into value-added products. These technological advancements have enhanced whey utilization and about 50% of the total produced whey is now transformed into value-added products such as whey powder, whey protein, whey permeate, bioethanol, biopolymers, hydrogen, methane, electricity bioprotein (single cell protein) and probiotics. Among various value-added products, the transformation of whey into proteinaceous products is attractive and demanding. The main important factor which is attractive for transformation of whey into proteinaceous products is the generally recognized as safe (GRAS) regulatory status of whey. Whey and whey permeate are biotransformed into proteinaceous feed and food-grade bioprotein/single cell protein through fermentation. On the other hand, whey can be directly processed to obtain whey protein concentrate, whey protein isolate, and individual whey proteins. Further, whey proteins are also transformed into bioactive peptides via enzymatic or fermentation processes. The proteinaceous products have applications as functional, nutritional and therapeutic commodities. Whey characteristics, and its transformation processes for proteinaceous products such as bioproteins, functional/nutritional protein and bioactive peptides are covered in this review.

Metabolic efficiency in yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae in relation to temperature dependent growth and biomass yield

Canonized view on temperature effects on growth rate of microorganisms is based on assumption of protein denaturation, which is not confirmed experimentally so far. We develop an alternative concept, which is based on view that limits of thermal tolerance are based on imbalance of cellular energy allocation. Therefore, we investigated growth suppression of yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae in the supraoptimal temperature range (30-40°C), i.e. above optimal temperature (Topt). The maximal specific growth rate (μmax) of biomass, its concentration and yield on glucose (Yx/glc) were measured across the whole thermal window (5-40°C) of the yeast in batch anaerobic growth on glucose. Specific rate of glucose consumption, specific rate of glucose consumption for maintenance (mglc), true biomass yield on glucose (Yx/glc(true)), fractional conservation of substrate carbon in product and ATP yield on glucose (Yatp/glc) were estimated from the experimental data. There was a negative linear relationship between ATP, ADP and AMP concentrations and specific growth rate at any growth conditions, whilst the energy charge was always high (~0.83). There were two temperature regions where mglc differed 12-fold, which points to the existence of a 'low' (within 5-31°C) and a 'high' (within 33-40°C) metabolic mode regarding maintenance requirements. The rise from the low to high mode occurred at 31-32°C in step-wise manner and it was accompanied with onset of suppression of μmax. High mglc at supraoptimal temperatures indicates a significant reduction of scope for growth, due to high maintenance cost. Analysis of temperature dependencies of product formation efficiency and Yatp/glc revealed that the efficiency of energy metabolism approaches its lower limit at 26-31°C. This limit is reflected in the predetermined combination of Yx/glc(true), elemental biomass composition and degree of reduction of the growth substrate. Approaching the limit implies a reduction of the safety margin of metabolic efficiency. We hypothesize that a temperature increase above Topt (e.g. >31°C) triggers both an increment in mglc and suppression of μmax, which together contribute to an upshift of Yatp/glc from the lower limit and thus compensate for the loss of the safety margin. This trade-off allows adding 10 more degrees to Topt and extends the thermal window up to 40°C, sustaining survival and reproduction in supraoptimal temperatures. Deeper understanding of the limits of thermal tolerance can be practically exploited in biotechnological applications.

Rock black fungi: excellence in the extremes, from the Antarctic to space

This work focuses on rock-inhabiting fungi (RIF) of Antarctic rocky deserts, considered the closest to a possible Martian habitat, as the best example of adaptation to the extremes. The study of RIF ecophysiology, resistance and adaptation provides tools that shed light on the evolution of extremophily. These studies also help define the actual limits for life and provide insight for investigating its existence beyond our planet. The scientific results obtained from over 20 years of research on the biodiversity, phylogeny and evolution toward extremotolerance reviewed here demonstrate how these fascinating organisms can withstand conditions well beyond those in their natural environment. A final focus is given on results and perspectives arising from a recent proteomic approach, and from astrobiological experiments and their significance for future space exploration. These studies demonstrate that Antarctic RIF offer an excellent opportunity to investigate many basic, but also applicative areas of research on extremophily.

Bio-ethanol production by a novel autochthonous thermo-tolerant yeast isolated from wastewater

BACKGROUND

It has been known for years that ethanol is a bio-fuel to replace fossil fuels. The ethanol industry requires the utilization of micro-organisms capable production with stresses. The purpose of present study was to isolate and characterize ethanologenic yeast with high potential application at high temperature to produce bio-ethanol.

METHODS

To isolate ethanologenic yeasts, wastewater samples from a starch producer plant in Varamin, Iran were used. The isolates were identified by molecular characterization. Characteristics of the isolated strains were determined at 30, 35, 40 and 45°C for 48 hours.

RESULTS

50 yeast strains capable of growing well in agar plates in a temperature range of 30-45°C were isolated. Out of the isolated strains, only three strains were screened for their ability to grow at 45°C. Selected yeast, designated as AT-3 strain which showed efficient flocculation capabilities with higher ethanol production and grew faster as compared to the rest of strains in media with 180 g/L glucose at 35°C. The selected yeast was identified as a new strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and submitted to the Gene-Bank database. Its' optimum growth temperature was between 35 and 40°C. The results showed that during the bio-ethanol production 2.5 × 10(10) and 8.5 × 10(9) (CFU/mL) were a good indication of strain capability in heat tolerance. Also, ethanol produced at a raise of 6.9% and 6.85% (w/v) at 35 and 40°C, respectively, whereas glucose-to-ethanol conversion yield was about 75% of the theoretical value.

CONCLUSIONS

Results emphasized that the isolated strain identified as Saccharomyces cerevisiae. This specific strain has thermo-tolerant, osmo-tolerant, flocculating capabilities with potential for application in developing a low cost ethanol industry.

A kinetic model of catabolic adaptation and protein reprofiling in Saccharomyces cerevisiae during temperature shifts

In this article, we aim to find an explanation for the surprisingly thin line, with regard to temperature, between cell growth, growth arrest and ultimately loss of cell viability. To this end, we used an integrative approach including both experimental and modelling work. We measured the short- and long-term effects of increases in growth temperature from 28 °C to 37, 39, 41, 42 or 43 °C on the central metabolism of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Based on the experimental data, we developed a kinetic mathematical model that describes the metabolic and energetic changes in growing bakers' yeast when exposed to a specific temperature upshift. The model includes the temperature dependence of core energy-conserving pathways, trehalose synthesis, protein synthesis and proteolysis. Because our model focuses on protein synthesis and degradation, the net result of which is important in determining the cell's capacity to grow, the model includes growth, i.e. glucose is consumed and biomass and adenosine nucleotide cofactors are produced. The model reproduces both the observed initial metabolic response and the subsequent relaxation into a new steady-state, compatible with the new ambient temperature. In addition, it shows that the energy consumption for proteome reprofiling may be a major determinant of heat-induced growth arrest and subsequent recovery or cell death.

Mutations of cytochrome c identified in patients with thrombocytopenia THC4 affect both apoptosis and cellular bioenergetics

Inherited thrombocytopenias are heterogeneous diseases caused by at least 20 genes playing different role in the processes of megakaryopoiesis and platelet production. Some forms, such as thrombocytopenia 4 (THC4), are very rare and not well characterized. THC4 is an autosomal dominant mild thrombocytopenia described in only one large family from New Zealand and due to a mutation (G41S) of the somatic isoform of the cytochrome c (CYCS) gene. We report a novel CYCS mutation (Y48H) in patients from an Italian family. Similar to individuals carrying G41S, they have platelets of normal size and morphology, which are only partially reduced in number, but no prolonged bleeding episodes. In order to determine the pathogenetic consequences of Y48H, we studied the effects of the two CYCS mutations in yeast and mouse cellular models. In both cases, we found reduction of respiratory level and increased apoptotic rate, supporting the pathogenetic role of CYCS in thrombocytopenia.

Antarctic epilithic lichens as niches for black meristematic fungi

Sixteen epilithic lichen samples (13 species), collected from seven locations in Northern and Southern Victoria Land in Antarctica, were investigated for the presence of black fungi. Thirteen fungal strains isolated were studied by both morphological and molecular methods. Nuclear ribosomal 18S gene sequences were used together with the most similar published and unpublished sequences of fungi from other sources, to reconstruct an ML tree. Most of the studied fungi could be grouped together with described or still unnamed rock-inhabiting species in lichen dominated Antarctic cryptoendolithic communities. At the edge of life, epilithic lichens withdraw inside the airspaces of rocks to find conditions still compatible with life; this study provides evidence, for the first time, that the same microbes associated to epilithic thalli also have the same fate and chose endolithic life. These results support the concept of lichens being complex symbiotic systems, which offer attractive and sheltered habitats for other microbes.

Drought meets acid: three new genera in a dothidealean clade of extremotolerant fungi

Fungal strains isolated from rocks and lichens collected in the Antarctic ice-free area of the Victoria Land, one of the coldest and driest habitats on earth, were found in two phylogenetically isolated positions within the subclass Dothideomycetidae. They are here reported as new genera and species, Recurvomyces mirabilisgen. nov., sp. nov. and Elasticomyces elasticusgen. nov., sp. nov. The nearest neighbours within the clades were other rock-inhabiting fungi from dry environments, either cold or hot. Plant-associated Mycosphaerella-like species, known as invaders of leathery leaves in semi-arid climates, are also phylogenetically related with the new taxa. The clusters are also related to the halophilic species Hortaea werneckii, as well as to acidophilic fungi. One of the latter, able to grow at pH 0, is Scytalidium acidophilum, which is ascribed here to the newly validated genus Acidomyces. The ecological implications of this finding are discussed.

Extremophilic yeasts: plasma-membrane fluidity as determinant of stress tolerance

Our aim was to investigate the response of selected yeasts and yeast-like fungi from extreme environments to various temperatures at the level of their plasma membranes, in order to elucidate the connections between their plasma-membrane fluidity (measured by electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy - EPR), growth temperature range, stress tolerance, and ecological distribution. Although all studied fungi can be considered mesophilic according to their growth temperature profiles, their plasma-membrane fluidity indicated otherwise. Arctic yeast Rhodosporidium diobovatum could be classified as psychrotolerant due to its higher average membrane fluidity. Extremely halotolerant black yeast-like fungus Hortaea werneckii isolated from solar salterns, on the other hand, is not adapted to low temperature, which is reflected in the higher average rigidity of its plasma membrane and as a consequence its inability to grow at temperatures lower than 10°C. The plasma membrane of Aureobasidium sp. isolated so far exclusively from an Arctic glacier with its intermediate fluidity and high fluidity variation at different temperatures may indicate the specialization of this yeast-like fungus to the specific glacial environment. Similar behaviour of plasma membrane was detected in the reference yeast, non-extremophilic Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Its membranes of intermediate fluidity and with high fluidity fluctuation at different temperatures may reflect the specialization of this yeast to mesophilic environments and prevent its colonization of extreme environments. Halotolerant Aureobasidium pullulans from salterns, and Arctic Cryptococcus liquefaciens and Rhodotorula mucilaginosa with moderately fluctuating plasma membranes of intermediate fluidity are representatives of globally distributed generalistic and stress-tolerant species that can thrive in a variety of environments. Keeping the membranes stable and flexible is one of the necessities for the microorganisms to survive changes in extreme habitats. Our data suggest that plasma-membrane fluidity can be used as an indicator of fitness for survival in the extreme environments. In addition to the average fluidity of plasma membrane, the fluctuation of fluidity is an important determinant of stress tolerance: high absolute fluidity fluctuation is tied to decreased survival. The fluidity and its variation therefore reflect survival strategy and fitness in extreme environments and are good indicators of the adaptability of microorganisms.

Ethanol production from paper sludge by simultaneous saccharification and co-fermentation using recombinant xylose-fermenting microorganisms

Simultaneous saccharification and co-fermentation (SSCF) of waste paper sludge to ethanol was investigated using two recombinant xylose-fermenting microbes: Zymomonas mobilis 8b and Saccharomyces cerevisiae RWB222. S. cerevisiae RWB222 produced over 40 g/L ethanol with a yield of 0.39 g ethanol/g carbohydrate on paper sludge at 37 degrees C, while similar titers and yields were achieved by Z. mobilis 8b at 30 degrees C. Both S. cerevisiae RWB222 and Z. mobilis 8b exhibited decreasing cell viability at 37 degrees C when producing over 40 g/L ethanol. A high ethanol concentration can account for S. cerevisiae RWB222 viability loss, but ethanol concentration was not the only factor influencing Z. mobilis 8b viability loss at 37 degrees C. Over 3 g/L residual glucose was observed at the end of paper sludge SSCF by Z. mobilis 8b, and a statistical analysis revealed that a high calcium concentration originating from paper sludge, a high ethanol concentration, and a high temperature were the key interactive factors resulting in glucose accumulation. The highest ethanol yields were achieved by SSCF of paper sludge with S. cerevisiae RWB222 at 37 degrees C and Z. mobilis 8b at 30 degrees C. With good sugar consumption at 37 degrees C, S. cerevisiae RWB222 was able to gain an improvement in the polysaccharide to sugar yield compared to that at 30 degrees C, whereas Z. mobilis 8b at 30 degrees C had a lower polysaccharide to sugar yield, but a higher sugar to ethanol yield than S. cerevisiae. Both organisms under optimal conditions achieved a 19% higher overall conversion of paper sludge to ethanol than the non-xylose utilizing S. cerevisiae D5A at its optimal process temperature of 37 degrees C.

Mrakia psychrophila sp. nov., a new species isolated from Antarctic soil

The yeast strain (Y18) was isolated from a soil sample collected from Fildes Peninsula, Antarctica. The strain is a psychrophilic yeast with optimum and maximum growth temperatures of 10 degrees C and 18 degrees C, respectively. Teliospores were formed after 7 d on malt agar, when the germination of teliospores was observed. Both inositol and D-glucuronate were assimilated. Positive results of the DBB (diazonium blue B) color reaction, urease test, and starch formation were observed. The major CoQ is Q(8). All results indicated that Y18 belongs to the genes of Mrakia. The 18S rDNA sequence analyses showed that Y18 is closely related to Mrakia frigida. DNA-DNA relatedness study, and some biochemistry characteristics indicated that Y18 represents a new species for which Mrakia psychrophila sp. nov. is proposed.

Yeasts in high Arctic glaciers: the discovery of a new habitat for eukaryotic microorganisms

Recently a new habitat for microbial life has been discovered at the base of polythermal glaciers. In ice from these subglacial environments so far only non-photosynthetic bacterial communities were discovered, but no eukaryotic microorganisms. We found high numbers of yeast cells, amounting to a maximum of 4,000 CFU ml(-1) of melt ice, in four different high Arctic glaciers. Twenty-two distinct species were isolated, including two new yeast species. Basidiomycetes predominated, among which Cryptococcus liquefaciens was the dominant species (ca. 90% of total). Other frequently occurring species were Cryptococcus albidus, Cryptococcus magnus, Cryptococcus saitoi and Rhodotorula mucilaginosa. The dominant yeast species were psychrotolerant, halotolerant, freeze-thaw resistant, unable to form mycelium, relatively small-sized and able to utilize a wide range of carbon and nitrogen sources. This is the first report on the presence of yeast populations in subglacial ice.

A multivariate analysis of soil yeasts isolated from a latitudinal gradient

Yeast isolates from soil samples collected from a latitudinal gradient (>77 degrees S to >64 degrees N) were subjected to multivariate analysis to produce a statistical foundation for observed relationships between habitat characteristics and the distribution of yeast taxa (at various systematic levels) in soil microbial communities. Combinations of temperature, rainfall (highly correlated with net primary productivity), and electrical conductivity (EC) could explain up to ca. 44% of the distribution of the predominant yeast species, rainfall and pH could explain ca. 32% of the distribution of clades in the most common orders (Filobasidiales and Tremellales), whereas vegetation type (trees, forbs, and grass) played the same role for orders. Cryptococcus species with appropriate maximum temperatures for growth predominated in most soils. Cryptococcus species in the Albidus clade of the Filobasidiales predominated in desert soils; Cryptococcus species of other clades in the Filobasidiales and Tremellales predominated in wetter and more-vegetated soils, with Tremellalean species favored in soils of lower pH or higher EC. The predominance of Cryptococcus species in soils has been attributed to their polysaccharide capsules, particularly important when competing with bacteria in arid soils.

Activation of the protein kinase C1 pathway upon continuous heat stress in Saccharomyces cerevisiae is triggered by an intracellular increase in osmolarity due to trehalose accumulation

This paper reports on physiological and molecular responses of Saccharomyces cerevisiae to heat stress conditions. We observed that within a very narrow range of culture temperatures, a shift from exponential growth to growth arrest and ultimately to cell death occurred. A detailed analysis was carried out of the accumulation of trehalose and the activation of the protein kinase C1 (PKC1) (cell integrity) pathway in both glucose- and ethanol-grown cells upon temperature upshifts within this narrow range of growth temperatures. It was observed that the PKC1 pathway was hardly activated in a tps1 mutant that is unable to accumulate any trehalose. Furthermore, it was observed that an increase of the extracellular osmolarity during a continuous heat stress prevented the activation of the pathway. The results of these analyses support our hypothesis that under heat stress conditions the activation of the PKC1 pathway is triggered by an increase in intracellular osmolarity, due to the accumulation of trehalose, rather than by the increase in temperature as such.

Hypoxia abolishes transience of the heat-shock response in the methylotrophic yeast Hansenula polymorpha

The heat-shock response is conserved amongst practically all organisms. Almost invariably, the massive heat-shock protein (Hsp) synthesis that it induces is subsequently down-regulated, making this a transient, not a sustained, stress response. This study investigated whether the heat-shock response displays any unusual features in the methylotrophic yeast Hansenula polymorpha, since this organism exhibits the highest growth temperature (49-50 degrees C) identified to date for any yeast and grows at 47 degrees C without either thermal death or detriment to final biomass yield. Maximal levels of Hsp induction were observed with a temperature upshift of H. polymorpha from 30 degrees C to 47-49 degrees C. This heat shock induces a prolonged growth arrest, heat-shock protein synthesis being down-regulated long before growth resumes at such high temperatures. A 30 degrees C to 49 degrees C heat shock also induced thermotolerance, although H. polymorpha cells in balanced growth at 49 degrees C were intrinsically thermotolerant. Unexpectedly, the normal transience of the H. polymorpha heat-shock response was suppressed completely by imposing the additional stress of hypoxia at the time of the 30 degrees C to 49 degrees C temperature upshift. Hypoxia abolishing the transience of the heat-shock response appears to operate at the level of Hsp gene transcription, since the heat-induced Hsp70 mRNA was transiently induced in a heat-shocked normoxic culture but displayed sustained induction in a culture deprived of oxygen at the time of temperature upshift.

Communities adjust their temperature optima by shifting producer-to-consumer ratio, shown in lichens as models: I. Hypothesis

An apparent paradox exists in the ecology of Antarctic lichens: their net photosynthetic temperature optimum (around 0 degrees C) lies far below the temperature optima of their constituent algae and fungi (around 20 degrees C). To address this paradox, we consider lichens as microbial communities and propose the "community adaptation" hypothesis, which posits that in each thermal regime there is an equilibrium between photosynthetic primary producers (photobionts), and heterotrophic consumers (mycobiont and parasymbiont fungi). This equilibrium, expressed as the producer/consumer ratio (R(p/c)), maximizes the fitness of the community. As respiration increases with temperature, more rapidly than does photosynthesis, R(p/c )will shift accordingly in warm habitats, resulting in a high-growth temperature optimum for the community (the lichen). This lends lichens an adaptive flexibility that enables them to function optimally at any thermal regime within the tolerance limits of the constituent organisms. The variable equilibrium of producers and consumers may have a similar role in thermal adaptation of more complex communities and ecosystems.

The metabolic response of Saccharomyces cerevisiae to continuous heat stress

A study has been initiated to integrate molecular and physiological responses of Saccharomyces cerevisiae to heat stress conditions. We focus our research on a quantification of the energetics of the stress response. A series of continuous heat stresses was applied to exponentially growing cells of the strain X2180-1A at 28 degrees C, by increasing the growth temperature to 37, 39, 40, 41, 42, or 43 degrees C. Here, the results on cell growth and viability, as well as on anabolic and catabolic rates are presented. We observed a surprisingly 'thin line' for the cells between growing, surviving, and dying, with regard to growth temperature. The heat stress showed a dual effect on catabolism: immediately after the temperature increase a strong peak was seen, after which a new, steady level was reached. In addition, the yield on glucose decreased with increasing temperature. Our results indicate that life at elevated temperatures is energetically unfavourable and a non-lethal heat stress invokes a redistribution of catabolic and anabolic fluxes.

Urea increases tolerance of yeast inorganic pyrophosphatase activity to ethanol: the other side of urea interaction with proteins

Ethanol is the major product of yeast sugar fermentation and yet, at certain concentrations, it is very toxic to yeast cells. The major targets for ethanol's toxicity are the plasma membrane and the cytosolic enzymes: ethanol alters membrane organization and permeability and inactivates and unfolds globular cytosolic enzymes. The effects of ethanol on the plasma membrane are attenuated by the presence of trehalose, a disaccharide of glucose that is accumulated simultaneously with urea. The data presented in this paper show that trehalose is not effective at protecting yeast cytosolic inorganic pyrophosphatase against the inactivation of its catalytic activity promoted by alcohols. In contrast, 1 M trehalose increased the toxicity of alcohols against pyrophosphatase by at least 34%. On the other hand, 1.5 M urea attenuated the inactivation of pyrophosphatase promoted by alcohols by approximately 50%. Here we propose that, in the presence of alcohols, urea functions as a molecular filter, enriching the vicinity of the protein with water and excluding alcohol molecules. Conversely, trehalose tends to increase the interaction of alcohols with protein molecules, by withdrawing water, leading to a stronger inactivation promoted for a given concentration of alcohol in the bulk solution on pyrophosphatase activity.

Effects of salts on Debaryomyces hansenii and Saccharomyces cerevisiae under stress conditions

The effect of Na+ and K+ on growth and thermal death of Debaryomyces hansenii and Saccharomyces cerevisiae were compared under stress conditions as those commonly found in food environments. At the supraoptimal temperature of 34 degrees C both cations at concentrations of 0.5 M stimulated growth of D. hansenii, while K+ had no effect and Na+ inhibited growth of S. cerevisiae. At 8 degrees C, close to the minimum temperature for growth in both species, both cations inhibited both yeasts, this effect being more pronounced with Na+ in S. cerevisiae. At extreme pH values (7.8 and 3.5) both cations at concentrations of 0.25 M stimulated D. hansenii while Na+ inhibited S. cerevisiae. K+ inhibited this yeast at pH 3.5. Thermal inactivation rates, measured at 38 degrees C in D. hansenii and at 48 degrees C in S. cerevisiae, decreased in the presence of both cations. This protective effect could be observed in a wider range of concentrations in D. hansenii. These results call the attention to the fact that not all yeasts have the same behaviour on what concerns synergy or antagonism of salt together with other stress factors and should be taken into consideration in the establishment of food preservation procedures.

Heat stress-induced life span extension in yeast

The yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae has a limited life span that can be measured by the number of times individual cells divide. Several genetic manipulations have been shown to prolong the yeast life span. However, environmental effects that extend longevity have been largely ignored. We have found that mild, nonlethal heat stress extended yeast life span when it was administered transiently early in life. The increased longevity was due to a reduction in the mortality rate that persisted over many cell divisions (generations) but was not permanent. The genes RAS1 and RAS2 were necessary to observe this effect of heat stress. The RAS2 gene is consistently required for maintenance of life span when heat stress is chronic or in its extension when heat stress is transient or absent altogether. RAS1, on the other hand, appears to have a role in signaling life extension induced by transient, mild heat stress, which is distinct from its life-span-curtailing effect in the absence of stress and its lack of involvement in the response to chronic heat stress. This distinction between the RAS genes may be partially related to their different effects on growth-promoting genes and stress-responsive genes. The ras2 mutation clearly hindered resumption of growth and recovery from stress, while the ras1 mutation did not. The HSP104 gene, which is largely responsible for induced thermotolerance in yeast, was necessary for life extension induced by transient heat stress. An interaction between mitochondrial petite mutations and heat stress was found, suggesting that mitochondria may be necessary for life extension by transient heat stress. The results raise the possibility that the RAS genes and mitochondria may play a role in the epigenetic inheritance of reduced mortality rate afforded by transient, mild heat stress.

The heat shock and ethanol stress responses of yeast exhibit extensive similarity and functional overlap

Sublethal heat and ethanol exposure induce essentially identical stress responses in yeast. These responses are characterized by the induction of heat shock proteins, proteins requiring a temperature above about 35 degrees C or ethanol levels above a threshold level of 4-6% (v/v) for strong induction. One induced protein, Hsp104, contributes to both thermotolerance and ethanol tolerance, while others are anti-oxidant enzymes. Heat and ethanol stress cause similar changes to plasma membrane protein composition, reducing the levels of plasma membrane H(+)-ATPase protein and inducing the plasma membrane-associated Hsp30. Both stresses also stimulate the activity of the fraction of H(+)-ATPase remaining in the plasma membrane. The resulting enhancement to catalysed proton efflux from the cell represents a considerable energy demand, yet may help to counteract the adverse effects for homeostasis of the increased membrane permeability that results from stress.

A comparison of miconazole, ketoconazole and fluconazole in their effects on temperature-dependent growth and thermal death in Candida albicans

A strain of Candida albicans isolated from human sputum exhibited an associative temperature profile, with the initial maximum temperature = 42 degrees C, the final maximum temperature = 38 degrees C, and the minimum temperature of thermal death = 33 degrees C, showed a decrease in its cardinal temperatures and a reduction in the specific rates of growth and thermal death throughout the novel temperature ranges in the presence of either 25 microM of miconazole, ketoconazole or fluconazole. In the concentration range 0-30 microM, each drug concertedly depressed the kinetic and energetic parameters of growth, with lesser variation on the specific glucose transfer rate. The overall effect of miconazole was the greatest (up to one order of magnitude), while that of fluconazole was the least.