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Induction of yeast killer factor mutations

M Vodkin

    Journal of Bacteriology
    |October 1, 1977
    PubMed

    Insights

    Mutagenesis of killer yeast strains revealed that double-stranded ribonucleic acid (dsRNA) is essential for killer activity. Some mutants lost all dsRNA, while others showed altered dsRNA profiles, indicating its role in killer phenotype.

    Area of Science:

    • Microbiology
    • Molecular Biology
    • Yeast Genetics

    Background:

    • Killer strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae produce toxins.
    • These killer phenotypes are often associated with the presence of double-stranded ribonucleic acid (dsRNA) molecules.
    • Understanding the genetic basis of killer activity is crucial for yeast research.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the role of double-stranded ribonucleic acid (dsRNA) in the killer phenotype of Saccharomyces cerevisiae.
    • To identify nonkiller variants and analyze their genetic makeup.

    Main Methods:

    • Mutagenesis of two related killer yeast strains.
    • Screening of mutagenized populations for nonkiller variants.
    • Analysis of double-stranded ribonucleic acid (dsRNA) content in selected mutants.

    Main Results:

    • Approximately 20% of mutants from one strain lost all detectable double-stranded ribonucleic acid (dsRNA).
    • Around 70% of mutants from the other strain exhibited a different dsRNA profile, lacking a specific species and possessing a lower molecular weight one.
    • These findings correlate dsRNA presence and integrity with killer activity.

    Conclusions:

    • Double-stranded ribonucleic acid (dsRNA) is essential for maintaining the killer phenotype in Saccharomyces cerevisiae.
    • Specific dsRNA species are directly linked to the killer factor.
    • Mutations affecting dsRNA can lead to the loss or alteration of killer activity.

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