Physiological Characterization of Yeast Strains: Growth, Biofilm Formation, and Metabolic Capabilities
Molloy Faculty Mentor
Dr. Li Li
Presenter Major
Biology Pre-Med
Presentation Type
Poster
Location
H239, 2nd floor, Barbara H. Hagan Center for Nursing
Start Date
28-4-2025 5:55 PM
End Date
28-4-2025 6:55 PM
Description (Abstract)
Yeast strains display a range of physiological traits that influence their growth, adhesion, and metabolic activities. This study examined five yeast strains, including two newly isolated strains, two laboratory Saccharomyces cerevisiae (baker’s yeast) strains, and the opportunistic pathogen Candida albicans. Cellular assays were performed to assess the effect of pH on growth and the influence of three quorum sensing molecules (QSMs) on adhesion and biofilm formation. Strain-specific differences were observed in biofilm development under various conditions. Additionally, an agar invasion assay revealed varying capacities for agar invasion, indicating the ability of some strains to transform and adapt for nutrient acquisition. Fermentation assays showed that the newly isolated strains were unable to ferment any of the sugars tested. In contrast, the two laboratory strains and C. albicans demonstrated remarkable metabolic versatility, efficiently utilizing a wide range of sugars for energy production. These findings provide insights into the adaptability of well-studied yeast strains and highlight the limited fermentative potential of newly isolated strains.
Keywords
Characterizations of Yeast Strains
Related Pillar(s)
Study
Physiological Characterization of Yeast Strains: Growth, Biofilm Formation, and Metabolic Capabilities
H239, 2nd floor, Barbara H. Hagan Center for Nursing
Yeast strains display a range of physiological traits that influence their growth, adhesion, and metabolic activities. This study examined five yeast strains, including two newly isolated strains, two laboratory Saccharomyces cerevisiae (baker’s yeast) strains, and the opportunistic pathogen Candida albicans. Cellular assays were performed to assess the effect of pH on growth and the influence of three quorum sensing molecules (QSMs) on adhesion and biofilm formation. Strain-specific differences were observed in biofilm development under various conditions. Additionally, an agar invasion assay revealed varying capacities for agar invasion, indicating the ability of some strains to transform and adapt for nutrient acquisition. Fermentation assays showed that the newly isolated strains were unable to ferment any of the sugars tested. In contrast, the two laboratory strains and C. albicans demonstrated remarkable metabolic versatility, efficiently utilizing a wide range of sugars for energy production. These findings provide insights into the adaptability of well-studied yeast strains and highlight the limited fermentative potential of newly isolated strains.
