Effects of Hydroxyurea on immobilized and suspended yeast fermentation rates and cell cycle operation

Hydroxyurea, an inhibitor of DNA synthesis in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, has been applied in order to restrict growth of immobilized cells. For comparison, the influence of hydroxyurea on suspended S. cerevisiae has also been investigated. Recovery from DNA synthesis inhibition, indicated by measurements of cell growth rate, DNA content, and light scatter properties, occurred faster in immobilized cells than in the suspended yeast. Morphogenesis in both populations was arrested by hydroxyurea, and there was an accumulation of single immobilized and suspended cells with large buds. Synthesis of protein and RNA was not adversely affected in either cell type. The specific rate of ethanol production by immobilized cells increased by an average of 24%, while, for the suspended cells, specific ethanol productivity was up to three times higher. Glucose consumption rates for both cell types also increased under the influence of hydroxyurea. Immobilized cell ethanol yields were reduced by ca. 16% in the presence of hydroxyurea; suspended cell yields were lower by an average of 50%. Total polysaccharide content was reduced by 65% for suspended cells and increased 30% for immobilized cells after hydroxyurea treatment. The data evidence disturbance of the yeast cell cycle due to immobilization.