Moderate Pulsed Electric Field Enhances Fermentation Capacity and Induces Stress Responses in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Saccharomyces cerevisiae has always gained a huge amount of attention due to its extensive and enormous application value. Various methods are used to optimize the fermentation characteristics of S. cerevisiae. In this work, we investigated the fermentation capacity and stress responses on a physiological level of S. cerevisiae which affected by moderate pulsed electric field (PEF, 1 to 3 kV·cm-1). The fermentation capacity was illustrated by glucose consumption and metabolites yield (ethanol and glycerol). The expressions of ten glycolysis-associated genes were studied to elucidate the fermentative processes. The results showed that fermentation capacity of S. cerevisiae was promoted by moderate PEF treatments, with higher glucose consumption and ethanol yield. Yeast cells also gained a faster growth rate under constant PEF stimulation. Analysis of gene expression involved in glycolytic pathway showed that moderate PEF treatments induced a higher glycolytic flux, especially in terms of synthesis of ethanol. It would be a promising technique for PEF to enhance fermentation capacity and growth of S. cerevisiae. © 2021 Friends Science Publishers