ABSTRACT
Protoplast fusion is an excellent alternative approach to the construction of fungal strains with novel gene combinations. Although segregants derived, from hybrids as a result of protoplast fusion may represent a new mix of gene pools, protoplast recombination can be used to blend several desirable properties together in a single biotype. Application of the protoplast fusion technique resulted in the isolation of both heterokaryons and diploids. Protoplast fusion has been demonstrated in Candida albicans and has also been successful in filamentous Deuteromycetes. For example, Beauveria bassiana, an entomopathogen with biological control applications, has been fused. Protoplast fusion is of current interest because of its applications in pure and applied genetics. The industrial application of fungi is considerable and very diverse. Different compounds are produced by the organisms, from low molecular weight primary metabolites such as ethanol or organic acids to secondary metabolites such as alkaloids and antibiotics.
