Developing methods and strains for genetic studies in the Saccharomyces bayanus var. uvarum species

For years, Saccharomyces cerevisiae has been used as a model organism to gain insight into complex biological processes. The study of closely related yeast species may be critical for understanding the molecular mechanism of evolution. Among those species, S. bayanus var. uvarum could be particularly pertinent because of the availability of its genome sequence. However, to date, in that species genetic studies are problematical due to the lack of standard strains collection and genetic methods. Here, we have developed heterothallic S. bayanus var. uvarum strains and obtained stable haploid strains. We further used UV-induced mutation and gene disruption to create a collection of auxotrophic derivatives. Finally, we have elaborated or improved methods to cultivate cells, obtain zygotes and spores and to transform this species. All these tools can now be used by the scientific community to study the biology of this species.