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RESEARCH PRODUCT

Autolysis of Yeasts

subject

description

Autolysis of yeast cells occurs after they have completed their life cycle and entered the death phase. It is characterized by a loss of cell membrane permeability, alteration of cell wall porosity, hydrolysis of cellular macromolecules by endogenous enzymes, and subsequent leakage of the breakdown products into the extracellular environment. Although a naturally occurring event, autolysis can be induced by exposing yeasts to elevated temperatures (40–60 °C), organic solvents, or detergents. Yeast autolysis occurs in many foods and beverages, where it may affect their sensory quality and commercial acceptability.