ABSTRACT
Saccharomyces cerevisiae is a premier research organism, serving as a genetically tractable model system in which to dissect the biological properties of all eukaryotes. Indeed, a battery of biotechnological tools has been developed for the genetic manipulation and analysis of this yeast. Saccharomyces cerevisiae is also a major participant in the bioconversion of foods and beverages intended for human consumption. It is viewed as the first true domestic organism, and its uses in the production of bread and fermented beverages predate recorded history.
