Yeasts are considered model systems for eukaryotic studies as they exhibit fast growth and have dispersed cells. Moreover, replica plating and mutant isolation of yeast cells is done with relative ease, as they have a well-defined genetic system. Most significantly, yeasts have a highly versatile DNA transformation system that can be utilized effectively for protein production.
Yeast is commonly grown in an YPD medium. The “Y” in YPD refers to a yeast extract, containing the water-soluble compounds generated when yeast is forced to self-digest. “P” refers to peptone, a mixture of peptides and amino acids prepared by digesting animal protein with proteases. “D” refers to dextrose, or glucose, source of carbon for yeast. YPD contains essential nutrients to satisfy the metabolic requirements of cells. However, certain media requires a defined composition, to meet the application needs a variety of synthetic media was developed. Individual components of the synthetic media may be modified to suit the needs of an experiment.
The protocols listed below can be used for growing and maintaining yeasts in liquid and solid media:
Note: Single yeast colonies may be observed after around 24 hours, but incubations over 48 hours are needed before they can be used for replica plating purposes. The growth rate of yeast cultures using synthetic drop-out medium supplements is ~50% slower.
Yeast cells grown using the above methods can be stored frozen in glycerol at -70 °C for more than 3 years or in rich medium slants at 4 °C for 6 months to a year. YPD plates with yeast cells can also be stored at 4 °C for 2-3 months sealed with Parafilm®. The protocols for the preservation and revival of yeast cells are listed below:
Note: Yeast cells can also be stored similarly using 8% (v/v) dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO, Product No. D8418).
Note: Avoid thawing the stock. In case the stock has thawed, vortex well before refreezing.
Yeasts are usually grown in YPD or synthetic media at 30 °C. We offer wide range of growth media and supplements for your specific application in both powder and liquid formats.
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