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Updated: Mar 10, 2026
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Published on: November 6, 2019
Preservation of Malassezia pachydermatis using skimmed milk as cryoprotective agent
F A Silva Sergent1, B Acosta-Hernández1, J Raduán Jaber1
1University Institute of Animal Health (IUSA), University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, 35413 Arucas, Las Palmas, Spain.
Abstract:
This study evaluated the effect of skimmed milk as a cryoprotectant for the maintenance and long-term preservation of 70 Malassezia pachydermatis strains. An initial suspension of each strain was prepared in sterile distilled water with skimmed milk. The most effective method was cryopreservation that ensured 100% viability for 2years.
Insights
Skimmed milk effectively preserved Malassezia pachydermatis strains using cryopreservation. This method ensured 100% viability for 70 yeast strains over a two-year period, demonstrating its long-term preservation potential.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Mycology
- Cryobiology
Background:
- Malassezia pachydermatis is a common yeast found on mammalian skin.
- Long-term preservation of microbial cultures is crucial for research and diagnostics.
- Effective cryoprotective agents are needed for maintaining yeast viability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate skimmed milk as a cryoprotectant for Malassezia pachydermatis.
- To determine the efficacy of cryopreservation for long-term maintenance of these yeast strains.
Main Methods:
- Preparation of yeast suspensions in sterile distilled water with skimmed milk.
- Cryopreservation of 70 Malassezia pachydermatis strains.
- Viability assessment of cryopreserved strains over two years.
Main Results:
- Skimmed milk demonstrated cryoprotective properties for Malassezia pachydermatis.
- Cryopreservation using skimmed milk resulted in 100% viability for all tested strains.
- The method ensured consistent viability for up to two years.
Conclusions:
- Skimmed milk is a suitable and effective cryoprotectant for Malassezia pachydermatis.
- Cryopreservation with skimmed milk offers a reliable method for long-term preservation of these yeast strains.
- This technique supports the continued availability of Malassezia pachydermatis for scientific study.
