Researchers decode key biofuels yeast genome

In North Carolina, researchers at Duke and UNC report in Genome Research that they have mapped the PE-2 yeast strain.

“We took an organism that is hugely important from an industrial standpoint but completely unknown in terms of its genetic and molecular properties,” lead researcher Dr. Lucas Argueso said.  “Now we have sequenced the genome, so we have a road map that will allow us to build upon its natural abilities,” he said. “This opens the door to crossing yeast strains to make even more efficient yeasts for enhanced biofuel production.” He added that Argueso said the PE-2 genome decode will help researchers to pinpoint ideal yeasts for cellulosic conversion of grasses to biofuel.

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