Rhythmic Genomics: The Yeast Metronome And The Walk Of Life

Ribosomal RNA sequence changes have been ticking away like clockwork for over 3 billion years, maybe even pre-dating the origin of the DNA world itself. However, even the slightest changes in sequence of these genes can be fatal. It is vital to conserve the important genetic ‘cogs’ to make sure cells function correctly.  However, significant changes do occur, contrary to expectation, and yet the yeast somehow still survives.

Furthermore, when two yeasts hybridise the clocks appear to re-set, apparently overwriting each others’ rhythm and eliminating unwanted variations on the theme. This provides clues as to how key motifs are conserved and allows us to track the evolutionary history of hybrids.

Steve James, lead researcher at the Institute of Food Research (IFR), said "I have sequenced these genes to selectively identify yeast species for over 15 years and had no idea they would turn out to be so variable."

Rob Davey, computational biologist at the National Collection of Yeast Cultures (NCYC), said “we can use new computer techniques to model the changes mathematically and really get to grips with what orchestrates the variation in these important cell housekeepers.”

Ian Roberts, Curator of NCYC, said "Yeasts are everywhere around us in nature and industry. This extra level of detail allows us to resolve important differences between yeasts and gain maximum benefits from their use in food, drink and healthcare."

This work was carried out in collaboration with the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.  The IFR is an institute of the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC).