Genomic mechanisms of stress tolerance for the industrial yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae against the major chemical classes of inhibitors derived from lignocellulosic biomass conversion

Authors: Liu, Zonglin

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 3/15/2016
Publication Date: 9/11/2016
Citation: Liu, Z.L. 2016. Genomic mechanisms of stress tolerance for the industrial yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae against the major chemical classes of inhibitors derived from lignocellulosic biomass conversion [abstract]. International Conference on Yeasts. p. 388.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Scientists at ARS developed tolerant industrial yeast that is able to reduce major chemical classes of inhibitors into less toxic or none toxic compounds while producing ethanol. Using genomic studies, we defined mechanisms of in situ detoxification involved in novel gene functions, vital cofactor regeneration balance, and newly reprogrammed pathways. We identified three key regulatory elements mediating the yeast tolerance, characterized signature gene expression signatures closely related to cell wall integrity and revealed significant roles of MAPK signaling pathway for the tolerance of the industrial yeast. Yet, our comparative genomic studies suggest that the global mechanisms of the yeast tolerance are far beyond the above mentioned elements and remain to be fully investigated. For example, the rewired networks from the evolved tolerance yeast demonstrated significant impact to at least 44 downstream pathways. This presentation will present the most updated advances on tolerance of the industrial yeast from novel gene functions to complex gene regulatory networks for better understanding of genomic mechanisms of the tolerance against the major chemical class of inhibitors. Such knowledge will aid the next generation biocatalyst development for production of chemicals and advanced biofuels from lignocellulosic biomass.