YSU researchers explore the potential of yeast-based targeted substance production

The scientific project titled "Study of Biochemical and Bioenergetic Processes of Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Yeasts during the Utilization of Carbon Sources Containing Organic Waste" by Liana Anikyan, Senior Laboratory Assistant at the Chair of Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Biotechnology, YSU Faculty of Biology, has been approved for funding under the "Research Support Program for PhD Students and Young Researchers-2024" competition of RA MoESCS.

Presenting the details of the project, Liana Anikyan stated, "Within the scope of the research, the growth and metabolism of S. cerevisiae yeasts will be studied under the influence of various carbon sources (glucose, fructose, sucrose, starch) and their mixtures. The experiments will be conducted under different growth conditions, also considering bioenergetic indicators. The next phase of the research will focus on the recycling of agricultural, industrial, and household waste (such as coffee residues, whey, brewery waste) and their impact on yeast growth and metabolism, with the aim of optimizing growth conditions and obtaining the maximum yield for the production of bioethanol or protein concentrate." 

Regarding the choice of topic, she emphasized that with the growth of the global population, the demand for energy is increasing, leading to issues related to the depletion of biomass and energy resources, which is a highly relevant problem today. Therefore, the search for sustainable energy sources is also a key area of study for scientists in the field. According to Liana Anikyan, S. cerevisiae yeasts can synthesize energy both through fermentation and aerobic respiration, either separately or in parallel, depending on the carbon sources. 

Addressing the next stage of the research, which deals with waste recycling methods and their impact on yeast growth and metabolism, Liana Anikyan noted, "The efficiency of recycling agricultural, industrial, and household waste, and the production of bioethanol, proteins, vitamins, and other valuable substances based on this, can ensure not only environmental protection but also an increase in economic efficiency."

She pointed out that Armenia currently uses the "take-make-dispose" model, which leads to waste accumulation and resource depletion, whereas the "reduce-reuse-recycle" ecological model implies efficient resource use and waste reduction.

"This means that the materials and resources used in production processes should be used with minimal losses, then recycled or reused, creating a circular economy. Implementing such a model in Armenia would create opportunities for efficient waste recycling and higher yields in the production of valuable materials, particularly in the fields of biochemistry and bioenergetics," emphasized the researcher.

The research began in October 2024 and will last for approximately three years. The scientific results will be published in internationally recognized journals and presented at international conferences.