[Production and regeneration of yeast protoplasts: a review]

The latest advance in protoplast technology results from a long and detailed study of cell wall composition and protoplast systems relating to their isolation and culture. The reports on protoplast preparation and fusion discussed in this review clearly demonstrate the applicability of technique for the genetic manipulation of microorganisms. These points have been demonstrated in Candida strains. The behaviour of protoplasts especially with respect to reversion could be an additional factor that operates during selection. Furthermore the fusion technique, in providing a mechanism which genetic recombination can be readily achieved, should be of great potential in empirical breeding and strain improvement. These aspects are reviewed.