Metabolic versatility of the Wickerhamiella/Starmerella yeast clade: from sugar utilization to lipid metabolism

The Wickerhamiella/Starmerella (W/S) yeast clade has recently gained attention as a "treasure trove" of metabolic diversity, characterized by unusual pathways shaped through complex evolutionary events. One of their most distinctive traits is their specialized sugar metabolism, which allows them to thrive in sugar-rich environments. While their role in sugar utilization is well established, emerging evidence suggests that some W/S species can also metabolize hydrophobic compounds, indicating a broader capacity for lipid-related processes. For instance, several W/S species produce sophorolipids (SLs)-a class of glycolipids with commercial applications as sustainable biosurfactants. This ability has sparked growing interest in their potential to synthesize a diverse range of lipids, including glycolipids and dicarboxylic acids. This mini-review explores the evolution and distinctive metabolic features of the W/S clade, focusing not only on its well-characterized sugar metabolism but also on its lesser-known lipid metabolism. Particular attention is given to SL production and the expansion and diversity of cytochrome P450 family 52 enzymes within this underexplored group, emphasizing their biotechnological potential in lipid biosynthesis and their promising applications in sustainable bioprocesses.