By analyzing the genome structures of bioethanol-producing microorganisms, scientists are discovering genetic clues they say will be critical in development in developing new technologies to implement biofuel production on a global scale, Ethioplanet reported. Two studies published in Genome Research have identified genomic properties of industrial fuel yeasts that have given rise to more robust strains. Yeast strains thriving in the harsh conditions of industrial fuel production are much hardier than those utilized for brewing beer.

(Ethioplanet, November 11, 2009)

(http://www.ethioplanet.com/…)

DTN: Researchers from Duke University, Stanford University and Brazil have now sequenced and analyzed the structure of the entire genome of a strain prominent in Brazil that appears stress tolerant and amenable to genetic engineering. The second study found that all five industrial strains harbor amplifications of genes involving in synthesizing vitamins critical for efficient growth and utilization of sugar. The scientists believe that the information they have learned from the genomic studies will be invaluable to optimize biofuel production. (Cheryl Anderson)