Introduction to Yeast

Yeast are eukaryotic, single-celled microorganisms classified as members of the fungus

kingdom. They are known for their role in fermentation, where they convert
carbohydrates into carbon dioxide and alcohols, and for their use in baking and brewing.
Yeast Characteristics
● Size: Typically measuring 3–4 μm in diameter, although some yeasts can grow to
40 μm in size.
● Reproduction: Most yeasts reproduce asexually by mitosis, and many do so by
the asymmetric division process known as budding.
Types of Yeast
● Saccharomyces cerevisiae: The most common yeast species used in baking,
brewing, and winemaking.
● Candida albicans: An opportunistic pathogen that can cause infections in
humans.
Yeast Morphology
● Cell Structure: Yeasts have a thick polysaccharide cell wall and typical eukaryotic
structures, including a nucleus and mitochondria.
● Dimorphism: Some yeast species can switch between unicellular and
multicellular forms, depending on environmental conditions.
Yeast in Food Production
● Baking: Yeast is used to leaven bread and other baked goods through the
production of carbon dioxide.
● Brewing: In beer and wine making, yeast ferments sugars to produce alcohol and
flavor compounds.
Yeast in Science
● Model Organism: S. cerevisiae is an important model organism in cell biology
research, providing insights into eukaryotic cell biology and human biology1.
● Biofactories: Genetically engineered yeasts are used to produce
pharmaceuticals, biofuels, and other chemicals1.
Pathogenic Yeasts
● Infections: Some yeasts, like C. albicans, can cause infections if they overgrow or
if the immune system is compromised.
● Antifungal Treatments: Various medications are available to treat yeast
infections.
Environmental Impact
 ● Bioremediation: Yeasts can be used to clean up environmental pollutants.
● Sustainable Energy: Research is ongoing into using yeasts to produce biofuels
and generate electricity in microbial fuel cells1.
Conservation and Study
● Research: Ongoing studies aim to understand yeast genetics, metabolism, and
ecology.
● Conservation: Efforts to preserve yeast biodiversity are important for maintaining
their roles in ecosystems and industry.

This reviewer provides a comprehensive overview of yeast, their biology, importance,

and applications