Overexpression of ATF1 in Brewer's Yeast for an Increase in Production of Select Esters

Rein, Brandon; Wallace, Olivia

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Overexpression of ATF1 in Brewer's Yeast for an Increase in Production of Select Esters

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Isoamyl acetate is an ester, providing a banana flavor prevalent in Bavarian Wheat Style beers. The ATF1 gene is responsible for regulating synthesis of isoamyl acetate. By increasing ATF1 expression, the amount of isoamyl acetate should increase. Homologous recombination was used to transform a copy of ATF1 into the ADE2 locus in the yeast genome. Results indicated that the ADE2 gene was successfully deleted and the ATF1 gene was successfully inserted in its place. The GC/MS analysis to measure the presence of volatile esters was inconclusive and requires further testing, but sensory analysis demonstrated desirability for the modified beer and detection of a fruity aroma. This study is a basis to determine the effects of changing ATF1 expression and its desirability. Future research should aim to better regulate ATF1 expression and measure ester production.

This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

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