Enhancing the flavour quality of Laiyang pear wine by screening sorbitol-utilizing yeasts and co-fermentation strategies

This study took a novel approach to address the dual challenges of enhancing the ethanol content and aroma complexity in Laiyang pear wine. It focused on sorbitol as a pivotal element in the strategic selection of yeasts with specific sorbitol-utilization capabilities and their application in co-fermentation strategies. We selected two Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains (coded as Sc1, Sc2), two Metschnikowia pulcherrima (coded as Mp1, Mp2), and one Pichia terricola (coded as Tp) due to their efficacy as starter cultures. Notably, the Sc2 strain, alone or with Mp2, significantly increased the ethanol content (30% and 16%). Mixed Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Pichia terricola fermentation improved the ester profiles and beta-damascenone levels (maximum of 150%), while Metschnikowia pulcherrima addition enriched the phenethyl alcohol content (maximum of 330%), diversifying the aroma. This study investigated the efficacy of strategic yeast selection based on sorbitol utilization and co-fermentation methods in enhancing Laiyang pear wine quality and aroma.

Competition for Nitrogen Resources: An Explanation of the Effects of a Bioprotective Strain Metschnikowia pulcherrima on the Growth of Hanseniaspora Genus in Oenology

As a biological alternative to the antimicrobial action of SO2, bioprotection has been proposed to winemakers as a means to limit or prevent grape musts microbial alteration. Competition for nitrogenous nutrients and for oxygen are often cited as potential explanations for the effectiveness of bioprotection. This study analyses the effect of a bioprotective M. pulcherrima strain on the growth of one H. valbyensis strain and one H. uvarum strain. Bioprotection efficiency was observed only against H. valbyensis inoculated at the two lowest concentrations. These results indicate a potential species-dependent efficiency of the bioprotective strain and a strong impact of the initial ratio between bioprotective and apiculate yeasts. The analysis of the consumption of nitrogen compounds revealed that leucine, isoleucine, lysine and tryptophan were consumed preferentially by all three strains. The weaker assimilation percentages of these amino acids observed in H. valbyensis at 24 h growth suggest competition with M. pulcherrima that could negatively affects the growth of the apiculate yeast in co-cultures. The slowest rate of O2 consumption of H. valbyensis strain, in comparison with M. pulcherrima, was probably not involved in the bioprotective effect. Non-targeted metabolomic analyses of M. pulcherrima and H. valbyensis co-culture indicate that the interaction between both strains particularly impact lysin and tryptophan metabolisms.

From bioprotective effects to diversification of wine aroma: Expanding the knowledge on Metschnikowia pulcherrima oenological potential

Microbial diseases are of major concern in vitiviniculture as they cause grape losses and wine alterations, but the prevention with chemical substances represents a risk to human health and agricultural ecosystem. A promising alternative is the biocontrol and bioprotection activity of non-Saccharomyces yeasts, such as Metschnikowia pulcherrima, which also presents positive oenological traits when used in multistarter fermentations. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of a selected M. pulcherrima strain in the post-harvest withering and vinification of Garganega grapes to produce the sweet 'passito' wine Recioto di Gambellara DOCG (Italy). M. pulcherrima was firstly inoculated on grape at the beginning of the withering process, and afterwards in must for multistarter sequential microfermentation trials with Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Microbiological, chemical, and sensory analyses were carried out to monitor the vinification of treated and control grapes. Grape bunches during withering were a suitable environment for the colonization by M. pulcherrima, which effectively prevented growth of molds. Differences in grape must composition were observed, and the diverse inoculation strategies caused noticeable variations of fermentation kinetics, main oenological parameters, wine aroma profile, and sensory perception. M. pulcherrima proved effective to protect grapes against fungal infections during withering and contribute to alcoholic fermentation generating wine with distinguished aromatic characteristics.

Iron Competition as an Important Mechanism of Pulcherrimin-Producing Metschnikowia sp. Strains for Controlling Postharvest Fungal Decays on Citrus Fruit

This study identified and tested fruit-isolated Metschnikowia yeasts against three major postharvest citrus pathogens, namely, Penicillium digitatum, Penicillium italicum, and Geotrichum citri-aurantii, and further evaluated the impact of FeCl3 on the biocontrol efficiency of pulcherrimin-producing M. pulcherrima strains. Based on the characterization of the pigmented halo surrounding the colonies and the analysis of the D1/D2 domain of 26S rDNA, a total of 46 Metschnikowia sp. were screened and identified. All 46 Metschnikowia strains significantly inhibited the hyphal growth of Penicillium digitatum, Penicillium italicum, and Geotrichum citri-aurantii, and effectively controlled the development of green mold, blue mold and sour rot of citrus fruit. The introduction of exogenous FeCl3 at certain concentrations did not significantly impact the pulcherriminic acid (PA) production of pigmented M. pulcherrima strains, but notably diminished the size of pigmented zones and the biocontrol efficacy against the three pathogens. Iron deficiency sensitivity experiments revealed that P. digitatum and P. italicum exhibited higher sensitivity compared to G. citri-aurantii, indicating that iron dependence varied among the three pathogens. These results suggested that M. pulcherrima strains, capable of producing high yields of PA, possessed great potential for use as biocontrol agents against postharvest citrus diseases. The biocontrol efficacy of these yeasts is mainly attributed to their ability to competitively deplete iron ions in a shared environment, with the magnitude of their pigmented halo directly correlating to their antagonistic capability. It is worth noting that the level of sensitivity of pathogens to iron deficiency might also affect the biocontrol effect of pulcherrimin-producing M. pulcherrima.

Genome-scale metabolic models reveal determinants of phenotypic differences in non-Saccharomyces yeasts

BACKGROUND

Use of alternative non-Saccharomyces yeasts in wine and beer brewing has gained more attention the recent years. This is both due to the desire to obtain a wider variety of flavours in the product and to reduce the final alcohol content. Given the metabolic differences between the yeast species, we wanted to account for some of the differences by using in silico models.

RESULTS

We created and studied genome-scale metabolic models of five different non-Saccharomyces species using an automated processes. These were: Metschnikowia pulcherrima, Lachancea thermotolerans, Hanseniaspora osmophila, Torulaspora delbrueckii and Kluyveromyces lactis. Using the models, we predicted that M. pulcherrima, when compared to the other species, conducts more respiration and thus produces less fermentation products, a finding which agrees with experimental data. Complex I of the electron transport chain was to be present in M. pulcherrima, but absent in the others. The predicted importance of Complex I was diminished when we incorporated constraints on the amount of enzymatic protein, as this shifts the metabolism towards fermentation.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that Complex I in the electron transport chain is a key differentiator between Metschnikowia pulcherrima and the other yeasts considered. Yet, more annotations and experimental data have the potential to improve model quality in order to increase fidelity and confidence in these results. Further experiments should be conducted to confirm the in vivo effect of Complex I in M. pulcherrima and its respiratory metabolism.

Bioprotection by non-Saccharomyces yeasts in oenology: Evaluation of O2 consumption and impact on acetic acid bacteria

Bioprotection by yeast addition is increasingly used in oenology as an alternative to sulfur dioxide (SO2). Recent studies have also shown that it is likely to consume dissolved O2. This ability could limit O2 for other microorganisms and the early oxidation of the grape must. However, the ability of yeasts to consume O2 in a context of bioprotection was poorly studied so far considering the high genetic diversity of non-Saccharomyces. The first aim of the present study was to perform an O2 consumption rate (OCR) screening of strains from a large multi species collection found in oenology. The results demonstrate significant inter and intra species diversity with regard to O2 consumption. In the must M. pulcherrima consumes O2 faster than Saccharomyces cerevisiae and then other studied non-Saccharomyces species. The O2 consumption was also evaluate in the context of a yeast mix used as industrial bioprotection (Metschnikowia pulcherrima and Torulaspora delbrueckii) in red must. These non-Saccharomyces yeasts were then showed to limit the growth of acetic acid bacteria, with a bioprotective effect comparable to that of the addition of sulfur dioxide. Laboratory experiment confirmed the negative impact of the non-Saccharomyces yeasts on Gluconobacter oxydans that may be related to O2 consumption. This study sheds new lights on the use of bioprotection as an alternative to SO2 and suggest the possibility to use O2 consumption measurements as a new criteria for non-Saccharomyces strain selection in a context of bioprotection application for the wine industry.

Must protection, sulfites versus bioprotection: A metabolomic study

The reduction of chemical inputs in wine has become one of the main challenges of the wine industry. One of the alternatives to sulfites developed is bioprotection, which consists in using non-Saccharomyces strains to prevent microbial deviation. However, the impact of substituting sulfites by bioprotection on the final wine remains poorly studied. For the first time, we characterized this impact on Chardonnay wine through an integrative approach. Interestingly, physico-chemical analysis did not reveal any difference between both treatments regarding classical oenological parameters. Nevertheless, bioprotection did not seem to provide as much protection against oxidation as sulfites, as observed through phenolic compound analysis. At a deeper level, untargeted metabolomic analyses revealed substantial changes in wine composition according to must treatment. In particular, the specific footprint of each treatment revealed an impact on nitrogen-containing compounds. This observation could be related to modifications in S. cerevisiae metabolism, in particular amino acid biosynthesis and tryptophan metabolism pathways. Thus, the type of must treatment seemed to impact metabolic fluxes of yeast differently, leading to the production of different compounds. For example, we observed glutathione and melatonin, compounds with antioxidant properties, which were enhanced with sulfites, but not with bioprotection. However, despite substantial modifications in wines regarding their chemical composition, the change in must treatment did not seem to impact the sensory profile of wine. This integrative approach has provided relevant new insights on the impact of sulfite substitution by bioprotection on Chardonnay wines.

Emerging biotechnologies and non-thermal technologies for winemaking in a context of global warming

In the current situation, wine areas are affected by several problems in a context of global warming: asymmetric maturities, pH increasing, high alcohol degree and flat wines with low freshness and poor aroma profile. The use of emerging biotechnologies allows to control or manage such problems. Emerging non-Saccharomyces as Lachancea thermotolerans are very useful for controlling pH by the formation of stable lactic acid from sugars with a slight concomitant alcohol reduction. Lower pH improves freshness increasing simultaneously microbiological stability. The use of Hanseniaspora spp. (specially H. vineae and H. opuntiae) or Metschnikowia pulcherrima promotes a better aroma complexity and improves wine sensory profile by the expression of a more complex metabolic pattern and the release of extracellular enzymes. Some of them are also compatible or synergic with the acidification by L. thermotolerans, and M. pulcherrima is an interesting biotool for reductive winemaking and bioprotection. The use of bioprotection is a powerful tool in this context, allowing oxidation control by oxygen depletion, the inhibition of some wild microorganisms, improving the implantation of some starters and limiting SO2. This can be complemented with the use of reductive yeast derivatives with high contents of reducing peptides and relevant compounds such as glutathione that also are interesting to reduce SO2. Finally, the use of emerging non-thermal technologies as Ultra High-Pressure Homogenization (UHPH) and Pulsed Light (PL) increases wine stability by microbial control and inactivation of oxidative enzymes, improving the implantation of emerging non-Saccharomyces and lowering SO2 additions. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT.

Biocontrol Efficacy of Metschnikowia spp. Yeasts in Organic Vineyards against Major Airborne Diseases of Table Grapes in the Field and in Postharvest

The aim of this work was to evaluate the efficacy of two antagonistic yeasts, Metschnikowia pulcherrima strain MPR3 and M. fructicola strain NRRL Y-27328 (commercial product NOLI), applied in addition to the "on-farm biological treatments" (BIO) carried out during the production season, for the containment of powdery mildew and grey mould diseases on organic table grapes 'Italia'. The yeast strains were applied in the field three times, and their efficacy was evaluated during the production season and under postharvest conditions. Overall, M. pulcherrima MPR3 combined with BIO treatments reduced disease incidence caused by Erysiphe necator and disease incidence and severity caused by Botrytis cinerea with values between 67.8% and 86.2%, showing higher efficacy than BIO treatments applied alone and in combination with NOLI. Field treatments based on BIO+MPR3 maintained their performance also during fruit storage, protecting grape berries from grey mould development to a greater extent than the other treatments (disease reduction of about 98%). Thus, the presence of M. pulcherrima MPR3 seems to improve disease management both in the field and in postharvest environments, without negative impacts on grape microbial communities. These findings highlight the potential of M. pulcherrima MPR3 as a promising alternative strategy for disease control in organic vineyards and in postharvest, providing sustainable solutions to improve food quality and safety.

Bio-protection in oenology by Metschnikowia pulcherrima: from field results to scientific inquiry

Finding alternatives to the use of chemical inputs to preserve the sanitary and organoleptic quality of food and beverages is essential to meet public health requirements and consumer preferences. In oenology, numerous manufacturers already offer a diverse range of bio-protection yeasts to protect must against microbiological alterations and therefore limit or eliminate sulphites during winemaking. Bio-protection involves selecting non-Saccharomyces yeasts belonging to different genera and species to induce negative interactions with indigenous microorganisms, thereby limiting their development and their impact on the matrix. Although the effectiveness of bio-protection in the winemaking industry has been reported in numerous journals, the underlying mechanisms are not yet well understood. The aim of this review is to examine the current state of the art of field trials and laboratory studies that demonstrate the effects of using yeasts for bio-protection, as well as the interaction mechanisms that may be responsible for these effects. It focuses on the yeast Metschnikowia pulcherrima, particularly recommended for the bio-protection of grape musts.

and the Toxicity of Its Metabolite, Pulcherrimin

Candidiasis is one of the most frequent infections worldwide. In this study, the antimicrobial properties of six strains belonging to the Metschnikowia pulcherrima clade were evaluated against twenty Candida and Candida-related Filobasidiella neoformans var. bacillispora (syn. Cryptococcus neoformans) of different origins, employing the agar cross method. The toxic effect of pulcherrimin, a red metabolite that is responsible for the antimicrobial activities of Metschnikowia spp., was evaluated in various experimental models. The results of agar tests showed that the selected M. pulcherrima strains inhibited the growth of the Candida and non-Candida strains. However, inhibition was dependent on the strain and the environment. The presence of peptone, sodium silicate, and a higher incubation temperature decreased the antifungal action of the M. pulcherrima strains. Pulcherrimin showed cytotoxic and antiproliferative activity, with oxidative stress in cells leading to apoptosis. More research is needed on the mechanism of action of pulcherrimin on somatic cells.

Enological Suitability of Indigenous Yeast Strains for 'Verdejo' Wine Production

The use of indigenous yeasts for the production of wines is a tool to defend the typicity of a particular region. The selection of appropriate indigenous yeasts ensures the maintenance of oenological characteristics by simulating spontaneous alcoholic fermentation (AF) while avoiding the risks of stuck or sluggish fermentations. In this study, autochthonous yeasts from Verdejo grape juice (Appellation of Origin Rueda) were selected, identified, and characterized to exploit the characteristics of the 'terroir'. The fermentation capacity of seven strains was studied individually at the laboratory scale. The most suitable strains (Saccharomyces cerevisiae: Sacch 1, Sacch 2, Sacch 4, and Sacch 6) and Sacch 6 co-inoculated with Metschnikowia pulcherrima were characterized at the pilot scale. The fermentation kinetics, bioproduct release, volatile composition, and sensory profile of the wines were evaluated. Significant differences were found, especially in the aroma profile. In particular, Sacch 6 and Sacch 6 co-inoculated with M. pulcherrima produced higher amounts of ethyl esters and acetates and lower amounts of higher alcohols than the spontaneous AF. Wines inoculated with indigenous yeasts had higher sensory scores for fruit aromas and overall rating. The selection of indigenous yeasts improved the aroma of Verdejo wines and could contribute to determining the wine typicity of the wine region.

Physico-Chemical Characterization of an Exocellular Sugars Tolerant Β-Glucosidase from Grape Metschnikowia pulcherrima Isolates

A broad variety of microorganisms with useful characteristics in the field of biotechnology live on the surface of grapes; one of these microorganisms is Metschnikowia pulcherrima. This yeast secretes a β-glucosidase that can be used in fermentative processes to liberate aromatic compounds. In this work, the synthesis of an exocellular β-glucosidase has been demonstrated and the optimal conditions to maximize the enzyme's effectiveness were determined. There was a maximum enzymatic activity at 28 °C and pH 4.5. Furthermore, the enzyme presents a great glucose and fructose tolerance, and to a lesser extent, ethanol tolerance. In addition, its activity was stimulated by calcium ions and low concentrations of ethanol and methanol. The impact of terpene content in wine was also determined. Because of these characteristics, β-glucosidase is a good candidate for use in enology.

The Influence of Grape Clone and Yeast Strain on Varietal Thiol Concentrations and Sensory Properties of Graševina Wines

Varietal thiol concentration in wine is influenced by numerous factors, of which grape variety and winemaking practices are often highlighted as the most important. Therefore, the aim of this work was to study the effects of grape clone and yeast strain (Saccharomyces and non-Saccharomyces) on the varietal thiols concentrations and sensory characteristics of Graševina (Vitis vinifera L.) white wines. Two grape clones were evaluated (OB-412 and OB-445) along with three different commercial yeast strains (Saccharomyces cerevisiae Lalvin Sensy and Sauvy, and Metschnikowia pulcherrima Flavia). The results showed that the concentration of varietal thiols in Graševina wines amounted up to a total of 226 ng/L. The clone OB-412 was characterized by its significantly higher concentrations, especially of 3-sulfanylhexanol (3SH) and 3-sulfanylhexyl acetate (3SHA). Moreover, alcoholic fermentation with pure S. cerevisiae Sauvy yeasts generally resulted in higher thiol concentrations, while sequential fermentation involving M. pulcherrima positively affected only the 4-methyl-4-sulfanyl-pentan-2-one (4MSP) concentration. Finally, sensory analysis showed that fermentation with pure S. cerevisiae Sauvy yeast also produced more desirable wines. The results suggest that clonal, and especially yeast strain, selections are important modulators of the aroma and sensory properties of wine.

Improving the Aromatic Profiles of Catarratto Wines: Impact of Metschnikowia pulcherrima and Glutathione-Rich Inactivated Yeasts

Catarratto is one of the most widely cultivated grape varieties in Sicily. It is an indigenous non-aromatic white grape variety. Despite its widespread use in winemaking, knowledge of the aroma and chemical and microbiological properties of Catarratto wines is quite limited. The influence of Metschnikowia pulcherrima combined with Saccharomyces cerevisiae on the aromatic expression of Catarratto wines was investigated with and without the addition of glutathione-rich inactivated yeast. The substance is a natural specific inactivated yeast with a guaranteed glutathione level used to limit oxidative processes. The aromatic profiles of the final wines were determined through analysis of the volatile organic compounds using a solid-phase microextraction technique that identified 26 aromatic compounds. The addition of M. pulcherrima in combination with the natural antioxidant undoubtedly increased the aromatic complexity of the wines. Dodecanal was exclusively detected in the wines processed with glutathione-rich inactivated yeasts. Furthermore, the presence of this natural antioxidant increased the concentration of six esters above the perception threshold. Sensory analysis was also performed with a panel of trained judges who confirmed the aromatic differences among the wines. These results suggest the suitability of glutathione-rich inactivated yeasts for determining the oxidative stability of Catarratto wines, thus preserving its aromatic compounds and colour.

Purification and characterization of a Metschnikowia pulcherrima killer toxin with antagonistic activity against pathogenic microorganisms

Yeasts can produce toxins in protein or glycoprotein structures that can act as an inhibitor on some bacteria and yeast species. The effects of those toxins on the growth of pathogenic and food spoilage microorganisms are subject to various studies. Metschnikowia pulcherrima was determined to be a killer toxin-producing yeast that was tested against three selected microorganisms, namely Escherichia coli Type-I, Micrococcus luteus and Candida albicans. The killer toxin only showed inhibitory activity against M. luteus. Different pH (5-6-7-8), temperature (20-25-30-35 °C) and carbon source (glucose-glycerol-ethanol-acetate) combinations were applied to stimulate the growth and toxin production of the killer yeast. The greatest increase among the different combinations was obtained at 20 °C and pH 7 when glycerol was used as the main carbon source. It was then also tested against other pathogen indicators or pathogens under these conditions. The killer toxin was partially purified by ethanol precipitation and showed inhibitory activity against M. luteus (36 mm). According to the protein profile obtained by SDS-PAGE, the molecular weight of the inhibitor toxin was measured about 7.4 kDa. The molecular weight with amino acid sequence of the killer toxin was 10.3 kDa and determined by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry.

Comparison of volatile compounds and sensory profiles of alcoholic black currant (Ribes nigrum) beverages produced with Saccharomyces, Torulaspora, and Metschnikowia yeasts

Black currants (Ribes nigrum) were fermented with Saccharomyces and non-Saccharomyces yeasts without added sugar to yield low-ethanol-content beverages. The effects of yeasts on the volatile compounds and sensory characteristics were analysed by HS-SPME-GC-MS, GC-O, and generic descriptive analysis. Ninety-eight volatile compounds were identified from the black currant juice and fermented beverages. Significant increases in the contents of esters (131 %), higher alcohols (391 %), and fatty acids (not present in juice sample) compared to initial juice were observed depending on the yeasts used. GC-O analysis revealed the higher impact of esters on the sensory properties of Saccharomyces bayanus-fermented beverage compared to the Torulaspora delbrueckii-fermented beverage. In the sensory evaluation, non-Saccharomyces yeasts resulted in a higher 'black currant odour'. However, all beverages were intensely sour, which can be a significant challenge in the development of alcoholic berry beverages.

Isolation and Identification of Wild Yeast from Malaysian Grapevine and Evaluation of Their Potential Antimicrobial Activity against Grapevine Fungal Pathogens

Pathogenic fungi belonging to the genera Botrytis, Phaeomoniella, Fusarium, Alternaria and Aspergillus are responsible for vines diseases that affect the growth, grapevine yield and organoleptic quality. Among innovative strategies for in-field plant disease control, one of the most promising is represented by biocontrol agents, including wild epiphytic yeast strains of grapevine berries. Twenty wild yeast, isolated and molecularly identified from three different Malaysian regions (Perlis, Perak and Pahang), were evaluated in a preliminary screening test on agar to select isolates with inhibition against Botrytis cinerea. On the basis of the results, nine yeasts belonging to genera Hanseniaspora, Starmerella, Metschnikowia, Candida were selected and then tested against five grape berry pathogens: Aspergillus carbonarius, Aspergillus ochraceus, Fusarium oxysporum, Alternaria alternata and Phaeomoniella chlamydospora.Starmerella bacillaris FE08.05 and Metschnikowia pulcherrima GP8 and Hanseniaspora uvarum GM19 showed the highest effect on inhibiting mycelial growth, which ranged between 15.1 and 4.3 mm for the inhibition ring. The quantitative analysis of the volatile organic compound profiles highlighted the presence of isoamyl and phenylethyl alcohols and an overall higher presence of low-chain fatty acids and volatile ethyl esters. The results of this study suggest that antagonist yeasts, potentially effective for the biological control of pathogenic moulds, can be found among the epiphytic microbiota associated with grape berries.

[Microbial lipids production from wastes by Metschnikowia pulcherrima: a review]

Biodiesel is an alternative fuel to addressing the energy shortage problem. Microbial lipids have attracted widespread attention as one of the potential feed-stocks for cost-effective and efficient biodiesel production. However, the large-scale production of microbial lipids is hampered by the complexity and the high cost of aseptic culturing approach. Metschnikowia pulcherrima is an oleaginous yeast with strong environmental adaptability. It is capable of utilizing a wide spectrum of substrates, and can be cultured under non-sterile conditions. Therefore, this yeast has great potential to replace the traditional oleaginous microorganisms, particularly in the area of recycling wastewater and solid waste for the production of biodiesel. Based on the analysis of lipid production and application conditions of M. pulcherrima, this review summarized the unique advantages of M. pulcherrima and the key factors affecting lipids production. We further discussed the feasibility of cultivating M. pulcherrima on various organic wastes under non-sterile conditions for lipids production. Moreover, we analyzed the challenges associated with M. pulcherrima's in the yield and mechanism for lipids production, and proposed perspectives for how to achieve efficient biodiesel production using this yeast.

New Isolated Metschnikowia pulcherrima Strains from Apples for Postharvest Biocontrol of Penicillium expansum and Patulin Accumulation

Wild yeasts isolated from the surface of apples were screened for antagonistic activity against Penicillium expansum, the main producer of the mycotoxin patulin. Three antagonistic yeasts (Y33, Y29 and Y24) from a total of 90 were found to inhibit P. expansum growth. Identification by ITS region sequence and characterization showed that three selected isolates of yeast should be different strains of Metschnikowia pulcherrima. Several concentrations of the selected yeasts were used to study their in vitro antifungal effectivity against P. expansum on Petri dishes (plates with 63.6 cm² surface) whereas their potential activity on patulin reduction was studied in liquid medium. Finally, the BCA that had the best in vitro antifungal capacity against P. and the best patulin degradation capacity was selected to be assessed directly on apples. All the selected strains demonstrated antifungal activity in vitro but the most efficient was the strain Y29. Isolated strains were able to reduce patulin content in liquid medium, Y29 being the only strain that completely reduced patulin levels within 120 h. The application of Y29 as biocontrol agent on the surface of apples inoculated with P. expansum, inhibited fungal growth and patulin production during storage. Therefore, the results shown that this yeast strain could be used for the reduction of P. expansum and its mycotoxin in apples or apple-based products by adapting the procedure application.

Biocompatibility in Ternary Fermentations With Lachancea thermotolerans, Other Non-Saccharomyces and Saccharomyces cerevisiae to Control pH and Improve the Sensory Profile of Wines From Warm Areas

Global warming is causing serious problems, especially, in warm regions, where musts with excess sugars and high pH produce wines with decreased freshness and unstable evolution. This study aimed to determine biocompatibility between yeast species, the capacity for microbiological acidification, and the aromatic profile produced in ternary fermentations in which Lachancea thermotolerans has been co-inoculated with Hanseniaspora vineae, Torulaspora delbrueckii, or Metschnikowia pulcherrima, and the fermentation process is subsequently completed with sequential inoculation of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. For this purpose, different cell culture media and instruments were used such as infrared spectroscopy, enzymatic autoanalyzer, chromatograph coupled with a flame ionization detector, spectrophotometric analysis, among others. The behavior of these yeasts was evaluated alone and in co-inoculation, always finishing the fermentation with sequential inoculation of S. cerevisiae, at a stable temperature of 16°C and with a low level of sulfites (25 mg/L) in white must. Significant results were obtained in terms of biocompatibility using population counts (CFU/ml) in differential plating media that permitted monitoring. Quantification of the five species was studied. Concerning acidification by L. thermotolerans in co-inoculations, we showed some metabolic interactions, such as the inhibition of acidification when H. vineae/L. thermotolerans were used, generating just over 0.13 g/L of lactic acid and, conversely, a synergistic effect when M. pulcherrima/L. thermotolerans were used, achieving 3.2 g/L of lactic acid and a reduction in pH of up to 0.33. A diminution in alcohol content higher than 0.6% v/v was observed in co-inoculation with the L. thermotolerans/M. pulcherrima yeasts, with total sugar consumption and very slow completion of fermentation in the inoculations with H. vineae and T. delbrueckii. The aromatic composition of the wines obtained was analyzed and a sensory evaluation conducted, and it was found that both L. thermotolerans and co-inoculations retained more aromatic esters over time and had a lower evolution toward the yellow tones typical of oxidation and that the best sensory evaluation was that of the Lt + Mp co-inoculation. Lachancea thermotolerans and co-inoculations produced wines with low levels of volatile acidity (<0.4 g/L). This work shows that good consortia strategies with binary and ternary fermentations of yeast strains can be a powerful bio-tool for producing more complex wines.

Effect of a Multistarter Yeast Inoculum on Ethanol Reduction and Population Dynamics in Wine Fermentation

Microbiological strategies are currently being considered as methods for reducing the ethanol content of wine. Fermentations started with a multistarter of three non-Saccharomyces yeasts (Metschnikowia pulcherrima (Mp), Torulaspora delbrueckii (Td) and Zygosaccharomyces bailii (Zb)) at different inoculum concentrations. S. cerevisiae (Sc) was inoculated into fermentations at 0 h (coinoculation), 48 h or 72 h (sequential fermentations). The microbial populations were analyzed by a culture-dependent approach (Wallerstein Laboratory Nutrient (WLN) culture medium) and a culture-independent method (PMA-qPCR). The results showed that among these three non-Saccharomyces yeasts, Td became the dominant non-Saccharomyces yeast in all fermentations, and Mp was the minority yeast. Sc was able to grow in all fermentations where it was involved, being the dominant yeast at the end of fermentation. We obtained a significant ethanol reduction of 0.48 to 0.77% (v/v) in sequential fermentations, with increased concentrations of lactic and acetic acids. The highest reduction was achieved when the inoculum concentration of non-Saccharomyces yeast was 10 times higher (10⁷ cells/mL) than that of S. cerevisiae. However, this reduction was lower than that obtained when these strains were used as single non-Saccharomyces species in the starter, indicating that interactions between them affected their performance. Therefore, more combinations of yeast species should be tested to achieve greater ethanol reductions.

Native Vineyard Non-Saccharomyces Yeasts Used for Biological Control of Botrytis cinerea in Stored Table Grape

Postharvest spoilage fungi, such as Botrytis cinerea, are considered the main cause of losses of fresh fruit quality and vegetables during storage, distribution, and consumption. The current control strategy is the use of SO₂ generator pads whose application is now largely under observation. A high quantity of SO₂ can be deleterious for fresh fruits and vegetables and it is not allowed in organic agriculture. For this reason, great attention has been recently focused on identifying Biological Control Agents (BCA) to implement biological approaches devoid of chemicals. In this direction, we carried out our study in isolating five different non-Saccharomyces yeast strains from local vineyards in the South of Italy as possible BCA. We performed both in vitro and in vivo assays in semi-commercial conditions on detached grape berries stored at 0 °C, simulating the temperature normally used during cold storage, and obtained relevant results. We isolated three M. pulcherrima strains and one L. thermotolerans strain able to largely antagonize the development of the B. cinerea, at both in vitro and in vivo conditions. In particular, we detected the ability of the three isolates of M. pulcherrima strains Ale4, N20/006, and Pr7 and the L. thermotolerans strain N10 to completely inhibit (100% in reduction) the mycelial growth of B. cinerea by producing fungistatic compounds. We found, using an extracellular lytic enzymes activity assay, that such activity could be related to lipid hydrolyzation, β-1,3-glucanase and pectinase activity, and pectinase and protease activity, depending on the yeasts used. Results from our in vitro assays allowed us to hypothesize for M. pulcherrima strains Ale4 and N20/006 a possible combination of both the production of soluble metabolites and volatile organic compounds to antagonize against B. cinerea growth. Moreover, in semi-commercial conditions, the M. pulcherrima strain N20/006 and L. thermotolerans strain N10 showed relevant antagonistic effect also at low concentrations (with a significantly reduction of ‘slip skin’ incidence of 86.4% and 72.7%, respectively), thus highlighting a peculiar property to use in commercial development for organic agriculture and the handling process.

Semi-continuous pilot-scale microbial oil production with Metschnikowia pulcherrima on starch hydrolysate

BACKGROUND

Heterotrophic microbial oils are potentially a more sustainable alternative to vegetable or fossil oils for food and fuel applications. However, as almost all work in the area is conducted on the laboratory scale, such studies carry limited industrial relevance and do not give a clear indication of what is required to produce an actual industrial process. Metschnikowia pulcherrima is a non-pathogenic industrially promising oleaginous yeast which exhibits numerous advantages for cost-effective lipid production, including a wide substrate uptake, antimicrobial activity and fermentation inhibitor tolerance. In this study, M. pulcherrima was fermented in stirred tank reactors of up to 350 L with 250-L working volume in both batch and semi-continuous operation to highlight the potential industrial relevance. Due to being food-grade, suitable for handling at scale and to demonstrate the oligosaccharide uptake capacity of M. pulcherrima, enzyme-hydrolysed starch in the form of glucose syrup was selected as fermentation feedstock.

RESULTS

In batch fermentations on the 2-L scale, a lipid concentration of 14.6 g L^-1 and productivity of 0.11 g L^-1 h^-1 were achieved, which was confirmed at 50 L (15.8 g L^-1; 0.10 g L^-1 h^-1). The maximum lipid production rate was 0.33 g L^-1 h^-1 (daily average), but the substrate uptake rate decreased with oligosaccharide chain length. To produce 1 kg of dry yeast biomass containing up to 43% (w/w) lipids, 5.2 kg of the glucose syrup was required, with a lipid yield of up to 0.21 g g^-1 consumed saccharides. In semi-continuous operation, for the first time, an oleaginous yeast was cultured for over 2 months with a relatively stable lipid production rate (around 0.08 g L^-1 h^-1) and fatty acid profile (degree of fatty acid saturation around 27.6% w/w), and without contamination. On the 250-L scale, comparable results were observed, culminating in the generation of nearly 10 kg lipids with a lipid productivity of 0.10 g L^-1 h^-1.

CONCLUSIONS

The results establish the importance of M. pulcherrima for industrial biotechnology and its suitability to commercially produce a food-grade oil. Further improvements in the productivity are required to make M. pulcherrima lipid production industrial reality, particularly when longer-chain saccharides are involved.

Fungal Diversity Analysis of Grape Musts from Central Valley-Chile and Characterization of Potential New Starter Cultures

Autochthonous microorganisms are an important source of the distinctive metabolites that influence the chemical profile of wine. However, little is known about the diversity of fungal communities associated with grape musts, even though they are the source of local yeast strains with potential capacities to become starters during fermentation. By using internal transcribed spacer (ITS) amplicon sequencing, we identified the taxonomic structure of the yeast community in unfermented and fermented musts of a typical Vitis vinifera L. var. Sauvignon blanc from the Central Valley of Chile throughout two consecutive seasons of production. Unsurprisingly, Saccharomyces represented the most abundant fungal genus in unfermented and fermented musts, mainly due to the contribution of S. uvarum (42.7%) and S. cerevisiae (80%). Unfermented musts were highly variable between seasons and showed higher values of fungal diversity than fermented musts. Since microbial physiological characterization is primarily achieved in culture, we isolated nine species belonging to six genera of fungi from the unfermented must samples. All isolates were characterized for their potential capacities to be used as new starters in wine. Remarkably, only Metschnikowia pulcherrima could co-exist with a commercial Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain under fermentative conditions, representing a feasible candidate strain for wine production.

Isotopic Tracers Unveil Distinct Fates for Nitrogen Sources during Wine Fermentation with Two Non-Saccharomyces Strains

Non-Saccharomyces yeast strains have become increasingly prevalent in the food industry, particularly in winemaking, because of their properties of interest both in biological control and in complexifying flavour profiles in end-products. However, unleashing the full potential of these species would require solid knowledge of their physiology and metabolism, which is, however, very limited to date. In this study, a quantitative analysis using ¹⁵N-labelled NH₄Cl, arginine, and glutamine, and ¹³C-labelled leucine and valine revealed the specificities of the nitrogen metabolism pattern of two non-Saccharomyces species, Torulaspora delbrueckii and Metschnikowia pulcherrima. In T. delbrueckii, consumed nitrogen sources were mainly directed towards the de novo synthesis of proteinogenic amino acids, at the expense of volatile compounds production. This redistribution pattern was in line with the high biomass-producer phenotype of this species. Conversely, in M. pulcherrima, which displayed weaker growth capacities, a larger proportion of consumed amino acids was catabolised for the production of higher alcohols through the Ehrlich pathway. Overall, this comprehensive overview of nitrogen redistribution in T. delbrueckii and M. pulcherrima provides valuable information for a better management of co- or sequential fermentation combining these species with Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

Bio-Protection as an Alternative to Sulphites: Impact on Chemical and Microbial Characteristics of Red Wines

In wine, one method of limiting the addition of sulphites, a harmful and allergenic agent, is bio-protection. This practice consists of the early addition of microorganisms on grape must before fermentation. Non-Saccharomyces yeasts have been proposed as an interesting alternative to sulphite addition. However, scientific data proving the effectiveness of bio-protection remains sparse. This study provides the first analysis of the chemical and microbiological effects of a Metschnikowia pulcherrima strain inoculated at the beginning of the red winemaking process in three wineries as an alternative to sulphiting. Like sulphiting, bio-protection effectively limited the growth of spoilage microbiota and had no influence on the phenolic compounds protecting musts and wine from oxidation. The bio-protection had no effect on the volatile compounds and the sensory differences were dependent on the experimental sites. However, a non-targeted metabolomic analysis by FTICR-MS highlighted a bio-protection signature.

Lower-alcohol wines produced by Metschnikowia pulcherrima and Saccharomyces cerevisiae co-fermentations: The effect of sequential inoculation timing

In Latin, 'pulcherrima' is a superlative form of an adjective that translates as beautiful. Apart from being 'the most beautiful' yeast, Metschnikowia pulcherrima has a remarkable potential in production of wines with lower ethanol content. The oenological performance of six M. pulcherrima strains was hereby tested in sequential cultures with Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The best-performing strain MP2 was further characterised in fermentations with different S. cerevisiae inoculation delays in both white grape juice and Chemically Defined Grape Juice Medium (CDGJM). The analysis of main metabolites, undertaken prior to sequential inoculations and upon fermentation completion, highlighted metabolic interactions and carbon sinks other than ethanol in MP2 treatments. Depending on the inoculation delay, MP2 white wines contained between 0.6% and 1.2% (v/v) less ethanol than the S. cerevisiae monoculture, with even larger decreases detected in the CDGJM. The MP2 treatments also contained higher concentrations of TCA cycle by-products (i.e. fumarate and succinate) and glycerol, and lower concentrations of acetic acid. The analysis of volatile compounds showed increased production of acetate esters and higher alcohols in all MP2 wines, alongside other compositional alterations arising from the S. cerevisiae inoculation delay.

A Rapid Method for Selecting Non-Saccharomyces Strains with a Low Ethanol Yield

The alcohol content in wine has increased due to external factors in recent decades. In recent reports, some non-Saccharomyces yeast species have been confirmed to reduce ethanol during the alcoholic fermentation process. Thus, an efficient screening of non-Saccharomyces yeasts with low ethanol yield is required due to the broad diversity of these yeasts. In this study, we proposed a rapid method for selecting strains with a low ethanol yield from forty-five non-Saccharomyces yeasts belonging to eighteen species. Single fermentations were carried out for this rapid selection. Then, sequential fermentations in synthetic and natural must were conducted with the selected strains to confirm their capacity to reduce ethanol compared with that of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The results showed that ten non-Saccharomyces strains were able to reduce the ethanol content, namely, Hanseniaspora uvarum (2), Issatchenkia terricola (1), Metschnikowia pulcherrima (2), Lachancea thermotolerans (1), Saccharomycodes ludwigii (1), Torulaspora delbrueckii (2), and Zygosaccharomyces bailii (1). Compared with S. cerevisiae, the ethanol reduction of the selected strains ranged from 0.29 to 1.39% (v/v). Sequential inoculations of M. pulcherrima (Mp51 and Mp FA) and S. cerevisiae reduced the highest concentration of ethanol by 1.17 to 1.39% (v/v) in synthetic or natural must. Second, sequential fermentations with Z. bailii (Zb43) and T. delbrueckii (Td Pt) performed in natural must yielded ethanol reductions of 1.02 and 0.84% (v/v), respectively.

Impact of Nutrient Availability on the Fermentation and Production of Aroma Compounds Under Sequential Inoculation With M. pulcherrima and S. cerevisiae

Non-Saccharomyces yeasts are currently widely used in winemaking to enhance aroma profile diversity among wines. The use of Metschnikowia pulcherrima in sequential inoculation with S. cerevisiae was compared to the inoculation of a pure culture of S. cerevisiae. Moreover, various concentrations of sugar, nitrogen and lipids were tested in synthetic must to assess their impact on fermentation and its outcomes using a Box-Behnken design. Due to its phenotypic specificities, early inoculation with M. pulcherrima led to important modifications, first altering the fermentation kinetics. This may relate, at least in part, to the depletion of some nitrogen sources by M. pulcherrima during the first part of fermentation. Beyond these negative interactions on fermentation performance, comparisons between pure cultures and sequentially inoculated cultures revealed changes in the distribution of carbon fluxes during fermentation in presence of M. pulcherrima, resulting in a positive impact on the production of central carbon metabolites and aromas. Furthermore, the expression of varietal thiols was strongly increased as a consequence of positive interactions between the two species. The mechanism of this release still needs to be investigated. Significant differences in the final concentrations of fermentative and varietal aromas depending on the initial must composition were obtained under both inoculation strategies. Interestingly, the response to changes in nutrient availability varied according to the inoculation modality. In particular, a greater incidence of lipids on the production of fatty acids and their ethyl esters derivatives was found during sequential fermentation compared with pure culture, to be viewed in combination with the metabolic characteristics of M. pulcherrima regarding the production of volatile compounds from acetyl-CoA. Overall, the importance of managing nutrient availability under M. pulcherrima/S. cerevisiae sequential inoculation in order to derive the maximum benefit from the potentialities of the non-Saccharomyces species while carrying out fermentation to dryness was highlighted.

Nitrogen Preferences during Alcoholic Fermentation of Different Non-Saccharomyces Yeasts of Oenological Interest

Non-Saccharomyces yeasts have long been considered spoilage microorganisms. Currently, oenological interest in those species is increasing, mostly due to their positive contribution to wine quality. In this work, the fermentative capacity and nitrogen consumption of several non-Saccharomyces wine yeast (Torulaspora delbrueckii, Lachancea thermotolerans, Starmerella bacillaris, Hanseniaspora uvarum, and Metschnikowia pulcherrima) were analyzed. For this purpose, synthetic must with three different nitrogen compositions was used: a mixture of amino acids and ammonium, only organic or inorganic nitrogen. The fermentation kinetics, nitrogen consumption, and yeast growth were measured over time. Our results showed that the good fermentative strains, T. delbrueckii and L. thermotolerans, had high similarities with Saccharomyces cerevisiae in terms of growth, fermentation profile, and nitrogen assimilation preferences, although L. thermotolerans presented an impaired behavior when only amino acids or ammonia were used, being strain-specific. M. pulcherrima was the non-Saccharomyces strain least affected by the nitrogen composition of the medium. The other two poor fermentative strains, H. uvarum and S. bacillaris, behaved similarly regarding amino acid uptake, which occurred earlier than that of the good fermentative species in the absence of ammonia. The results obtained in single non-Saccharomyces fermentations highlighted the importance of controlling nitrogen requirements of the wine yeasts, mainly in sequential fermentations, in order to manage a proper nitrogen supplementation, when needed.

Non-Saccharomyces yeast and lactic acid bacteria in Co-inoculated fermentations with two Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast strains: A strategy to improve the phenolic content of Syrah wine

Syrah must was co-inoculated with mixed cultures of Saccharomyces + O. oeni/Lb. plantarum and Saccharomyces + non-Saccharomyces + O. oeni/Lb. plantarum to evaluate the effect on phenolics and sensory attributes. Reference wines were produced by S. cerevisiae. Malvidin-3-O-glucoside, flavan-3-ols, flavonols and phenolic acids were quantified using a RP-HPLC technique. Physicochemical characteristics and sensory attributes were measured. Total acidity and alcohol in mixed co-inoculations were different from reference wines. The concentration of l-malic acid was 7-times less in mixed co-inoculations. Mixed co-inoculations had ca. 1.3-times more malvidin-3-O-glucoside and phenolic acids than reference wines. Flavan-3-ols and flavonols were not different between mixed co-inoculations and reference wines. Acidity and astringency were least in mixed co-inoculations. Mouthfeel and bitterness least in S. cerevisiae wines. Tasters preferred mixed co-inoculated wines. Mixed co-inoculation is a strategy to contemplate for Syrah vinification but the modalities of inoculation need further investigation. Success depends on a suitable combination of yeast/bacteria and consideration of strain variation.

Metschnikowia pulcherrima Selected Strain for Ethanol Reduction in Wine: Influence of Cell Immobilization and Aeration Condition

One of the most important problems in the winemaking field is the increase of ethanol content in wine. Wines with high ethanol level negatively affect wine flavor and human health. In this study, we evaluated the use of a selected strain of Metschnikowia pulcherrima in immobilized form and under different aeration conditions, to reduce the ethanol content evaluating the volatile profile of the resulting wines. In a preliminary screening the best conditions regarding free/immobilized cells, static/aerated fermentation and inoculation level were identified. Bench-Top fermentation trials with different aeration conditions showed that the use of M. pulcherrima selected strain with aeration flow of 20 mL/L/min during the first 72 h of fermentation, led an ethanol reduction of 1.38% (v/v) in comparison with Saccharomyces cerevisiae control strain. The analytical profile of the resulting wines did not show any negative feature. Indeed, the concentration of ethyl acetate, that above its sensory threshold impacts negatively the wine sensory profile, was found at an acceptable level. On the other hand, an increase in the concentration of significant fruity and flower compounds was found.

The expression, secretion and activity of the aspartic protease MpAPr1 in Metschnikowia pulcherrima IWBT Y1123

Protease-secreting yeasts have broad biotechnological potential for application to various industrial processes, including winemaking. However, this activity is influenced by the yeast response to environmental factors such as nitrogen and protein sources, as are found in grape juice. In this study, the wine-relevant yeast Metschnikowia pulcherrima IWBT Y1123, with known protease-secreting ability, was subjected to different nitrogen-containing compounds to monitor their impact on protease secretion and activity. Protease activity increased above basal levels for haemoglobin-containing treatments, indicating an inductive influence of proteins. On the other hand, treatments containing both haemoglobin and assimilable nitrogen sources led to a delayed increase in protease activity and protein degradation, suggesting a nitrogen catabolite repression mechanism at work. Protease activity and expression were furthermore evaluated in grape juice, which revealed increased expression and activity levels over time as promising results for further investigations into the impact of this yeast on wine properties.

A Metagenomic-Based Approach for the Characterization of Bacterial Diversity Associated with Spontaneous Malolactic Fermentations in Wine

This study reports the first application of a next generation sequencing (NGS) analysis. The analysis was designed to monitor the effect of the management of microbial resources associated with alcoholic fermentation on spontaneous malolactic consortium. Together with the analysis of 16S rRNA genes from the metagenome, we monitored the principal parameters linked to MLF (e.g., malic and lactic acid concentration, pH). We encompass seven dissimilar concrete practices to manage microorganisms associated with alcoholic fermentation: Un-inoculated must (UM), pied-de-cuve (PdC), Saccharomyces cerevisiae (SC), S. cerevisiae and Torulaspora delbrueckii co-inoculated and sequentially inoculated, as well as S. cerevisiae and Metschnikowia pulcherrima co-inoculated and sequentially inoculated. Surprisingly, each experimental modes led to different taxonomic composition of the bacterial communities of the malolactic consortia, in terms of prokaryotic phyla and genera. Our findings indicated that, uncontrolled AF (UM, PdC) led to heterogeneous consortia associated with MLF (with a relevant presence of the genera Acetobacter and Gluconobacter), when compared with controlled AF (SC) (showing a clear dominance of the genus Oenococcus). Effectively, the SC trial malic acid was completely degraded in about two weeks after the end of AF, while, on the contrary, malic acid decarboxylation remained uncomplete after 7 weeks in the case of UM and PdC. In addition, for the first time, we demonstrated that both (i) the inoculation of different non-Saccharomyces (T. delbrueckii and M. pulcherrima) and, (ii) the inoculation time of the non-Saccharomyces with respect to S. cerevisiae resources (co-inoculated and sequentially inoculated) influence the composition of the connected MLF consortia, modulating MLF performance. Finally, we demonstrated the first findings of delayed and inhibited MLF when M. pulcherrima, and T. delbrueckii were inoculated, respectively. In addition, as a further control test, we also assessed the effect of the inoculation with Oenococcus oeni and Lactobacillus plantarum at the end of alcoholic fermentation, as MLF starter cultures. Our study suggests the potential interest in the application of NGS analysis, to monitor the effect of alcoholic fermentation on the spontaneous malolactic consortium, in relation to wine.

Nitrogen sources preferences of non-Saccharomyces yeasts to sustain growth and fermentation under winemaking conditions

Wine-related non-Saccharomyces yeasts are becoming more widely used in oenological practice for their ability to confer wine a more complex satisfying aroma, but their metabolism remains unknown. Our study explored the nitrogen utilisation profile of three popular non-Saccharomyces species, Torulaspora delbrueckii, Metschnikowia pulcherrima and Metschnikowia fructicola. The nitrogen source preferences to support growth and fermentation as well as the uptake order of different nitrogen sources during wine fermentation were investigated. While T. delbrueckii and S. cerevisiae strains shared the same nitrogen source preferences, Metschnikowia sp. Displayed a lower capacity to efficiently use the preferred nitrogen compounds, but were able to assimilate a wider range of amino acids. During alcoholic fermentation, the non-Saccharomyces strains consumed different nitrogen sources in a similar order as S. cerevisiae, but not as quickly. Furthermore, when all the nitrogen sources were supplied in the same amount, their assimilation order was similarly affected for both S. cerevisiae and non-Saccharomyces strains. Under this condition, the rate of nitrogen source consumption of non-Saccharomyces strains and S. cerevisiae was comparable. Overall, this study expands our understanding about the preferences and consumption rates of individual nitrogen sources by the investigated non-Saccharomyces yeasts in a wine environment. This knowledge provides useful information for a more efficient exploitation of non-Saccharomyces strains that improves the management of the wine fermentation.

Effect of the Sequential Inoculation of Non-Saccharomyces/Saccharomyces on the Anthocyans and Stilbenes Composition of Tempranillo Wines

The phenolic compounds of red wines are responsible for their color, astringency, and antioxidant properties. The fermentative yeasts might be used to modulate wines in terms of their color, aroma and probably healthy properties. In this study, six non-Saccharomyces species were tested because they might enhance the properties of red Tempranillo wines from Rioja. The results confirmed that the anthocyanins and stilbenes composition of wine can be modulated with the use of a specific fermentation starter. Metschnikowia pulcherrima, Zygosaccharomyces bailii, Candida zeylanoides, and Torulaspora delbrueckii achieved the greatest improvements of the monomeric anthocyanin composition, and the latter three yeast species achieved the best results of stilbene composition when compared to S. cerevisiae and the other non-Saccharomyces yeasts. Overall, results suggested that the use of M. pulcherrima, Z. bailii, C. zeylanoides and T. delbrueckii as fermentation starters could be of great interest to achieve wines with better color and likely healthy properties.

Use of Indigenous Hanseniaspora vineae and Metschnikowia pulcherrima Co-fermentation With Saccharomyces cerevisiae to Improve the Aroma Diversity of Vidal Blanc Icewine

Using novel non-Saccharomyces strains is regarded as an effective way to improve the aroma diversity of wines to meet the expectations of consumers. The non-Saccharomyces Hanseniaspora vineae and Metschnikowia pulcherrima have good aromatic properties useful for the production of table wine. However, no detailed information is available on their performances in icewine fermentation. In this study, simultaneous and sequential fermentation trials of indigenous M. pulcherrima CVE-MP20 or H. vineae CVE-HV11 with S. cerevisiae (SC45) were performed in 50-L fermenters of Vidal icewine, respectively. The results showed that SC45 cofermented with different non-Saccharomyces strains could generate a distinct aroma quality of icewine compared with four S. cerevisiae strain monocultures as evidenced by principal component analysis (PCA). Mixed fermentation of MP20/SC45 produced higher contents of acetate esters and β-damascenone with lower C₆ alcohols relative to SC45 monoculture. Interestingly, HV11/SC45 generated the highest amounts of C₆ alcohols [(Z)-3-hexen-1-ol and (E)-3-hexen-1-ol], higher alcohols (isobutanol, isopentanol, and 2-phenylethanol), acetate esters (2-phenethyl acetate and isoamyl acetate), cis-rose oxide, β-damascenone, and phenylacetaldehyde. Compared with simultaneous inoculation, sequential inoculation could achieve higher aroma diversity and produce higher intensity of fruity, flowery, and sweet attributes of icewine as assessed by calculating the odor activity values (OAVs). Our results verified the desired enological characteristics of H. vineae strain in icewine fermentation and also demonstrated that using indigenous non-Saccharomyces and Saccharomyces strains is a feasible way to improve aroma diversity of icewine products, which could provide an alternative way to meet the requirement of wine consumers for diversified aromatic quality.

Melatonin Minimizes the Impact of Oxidative Stress Induced by Hydrogen Peroxide in Saccharomyces and Non-conventional Yeast

Melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine) is synthesized from tryptophan by Saccharomyces cerevisiae and non-conventional yeast species. Antioxidant properties have been suggested as a possible role of melatonin in a S. cerevisiae wine strain. However, the possible antioxidant melatonin effect on non-Saccharomyces species and other strains of S. cerevisiae must be evaluated. The aim of this study was to determine the antioxidant capacity of melatonin in eight S. cerevisiae strains and four non-conventional yeasts (Torulaspora delbrueckii, Metschnikowia pulcherrima, Starmerella bacillaris, and Hanseniaspora uvarum). Therefore, the ROS formation, lipid peroxidation, catalase activity, fatty acid composition, and peroxisome proliferation were investigated. The results showed that the presence of melatonin increases peroxisome accumulation and slightly increases the catalase activity. When cells grown in the presence of melatonin were exposed to oxidative stress induced by H₂O₂, lower ROS accumulation and lipid peroxidation were observed in all tested strains. Therefore, the increased catalase activity that was a consequence of oxidative stress was lower in the presence of melatonin. Moreover, the presence of MEL modulates cell FA composition, increasing oleic and palmitoleic acids and leading to higher UFA/SFA ratios, which have been previously related to a higher tolerance to H₂O₂. These findings demonstrate that melatonin can act as an antioxidant compound in both S. cerevisiae and non-Saccharomyces yeasts.

Analytical impact of Metschnikowia pulcherrima in the volatile profile of Verdejo white wines

Most wine aroma compounds, including the varietal fraction, are produced or released during wine production and derived from microbial activity. Varietal aromas, typically defined as terpenes and thiols, have been described as derived from their non-volatile precursors, released during wine fermentation by different yeast hydrolytic enzymes. The perception of these minority aroma compounds depends on the chemical matrix of the wine, especially on the presence of majority aroma compounds, such as esters or higher alcohols. Strategies aiming to reduce the production of these masking flavors are on the spotlight of enology research as a way to better define varietal standard profiles for the global market. Using a natural white must from Verdejo variety (defined as a thiol grape variety), here we describe the analytical and sensorial impact of using, in sequential inoculations, a selected strain of Metschnikowia pulcherrima, in combination with two different Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains. An increase in the levels of the thiol 4-MSP (4-methyl-4-sulfanylpentan-2-one) over its sensory threshold, together with a decrease in higher alcohol production, was observed when M. pulcherrima was used. This has an important impact on these wines, making them fruitier and fresher, always preferred by the sensory panel.

Wine aromatic compound production and fermentative behaviour within different non-Saccharomyces species and clones

AIMS

Twenty-five enological yeasts belonging to nine different species (Candida zeylanoides, Cryptococcus uzbekistanensis, Debaryomyces hansenii, Lachancea thermotolerans, Metschnikowia pulcherrima, Torulaspora delbrueckii, Williopsis pratensis, Zygosaccharomyces bailii and Saccharomyces cerevisiae) were screened for aroma formation and fermentative behaviour as part of a non-Saccharomyces yeast selection programme.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Pure cultures were inoculated in pasteurized grape juice in order to perform alcoholic fermentations. Some non-Saccharomyces species did not ferment, others did not get established and none of them completed alcoholic fermentations. The physico-chemical parameters of the wines and the abundance of aromatic compounds at the end of alcoholic fermentation highlighted the notable differences in the aroma-forming ability and fermentative behaviour of the different non-Saccharomyces species, but not within clones.

CONCLUSIONS

Lower diversity was detected within non-Saccharomyces species than that reported in S. cerevisiae with regard to enological behaviour and aromatic profiles. Metschnikowia pulcherrima and L. thermotolerans are the two species with higher possibilities to become an inoculum.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

Few significant differences were found within clones of the same species, but very important parameters in wine quality, such as volatile acidity, ethyl acetate and acetoin, which would justify selection programmes within those species. The results also demonstrated that T. delbrueckii and L. thermotolerans are two close species in their aromatic profiles.

The preservation effect of Metschnikowia pulcherrima yeast on anthracnose of postharvest mango fruits and the possible mechanism

This study aimed to determine the effects of Metschnikowia pulcherrima yeast on storage quality of 'Tainong' mango, and elucidate it's possible anti-disease mechanism. The results showed that M. pulcherrima could inhibit the changes in peel colour, fruit firmness, the contents of total soluble solids, total acid and vitamin C, and maintain the storage quality of mango fruits. An investigation of the mechanism showed that M. pulcherrima competed not only for the primary carbon source, but also for living space with Colletotrichum gloeosporioides. In addition, M. pulcherrima promoted the activities of defence-related enzymes, including ß-1,3-glucanase(GLU) and chitinase (CHT), and secreted a small amount of antimicrobial substances composed of volatile and nonvolatile anti-fungal compounds. The results strongly demonstrated that antagonistic yeast M. pulcherrima could be applied as a biocontrol agent for deducing the spoilage and decay of mango fruit.

Characterisation of the enzymatic properties of MpAPr1, an aspartic protease secreted by the wine yeast Metschnikowia pulcherrima

BACKGROUND

MpAPr1, encoding an acid protease from the wine yeast Metschnikowia pulcherrima IWBT Y1123, was previously isolated and shown to display potential activity against casein and grape proteins. However, its characterisation remained partial.

RESULTS

MpAPr1 was cloned into the pGAPZαA vector and transformed into Komagataella pastoris X33 for heterologous expression. After verification of activity, the enzyme properties were characterised. Protease activity within the concentrated supernatant was retained over a pH range of 3.0 to 5.0 and between 10 °C and 50 °C. Optimal conditions for protease activity were found at 40 °C and pH 4.5. Activity was mostly unaffected by the presence of metal ions with the exception of Cu²⁺ and Ni²⁺ . Furthermore, proteolytic activity was retained in the presence of sugar and ethanol. pH and temperature conditions for MpAPr1 expression in K. pastoris were optimised. Purification was achieved by means of cation exchange chromatography and kinetic parameters (K_m and V_max ) were determined. MpAPr1 activity against grape proteins was confirmed, but the extent of the degradation was dependent on the nature of these proteins and the environmental conditions.

CONCLUSION

Overall, the results suggest that MpAPr1 could be applied in food biotechnology processes such as winemaking. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry.

Selection and use of pectinolytic yeasts for improving clarification and phenolic extraction in winemaking

Pectinase enzymes have shown a considerable influence in both, sensitive and technological properties of wines. They can help to improve clarification process, releasing more color and flavor compounds entrapped in grape skin, facilitating the liberation of phenolic compounds. This work aims to find yeasts that, because of their native pectinases, can be applied on combined fermentations with Saccharomyces cerevisiae obtaining significant benefits over single-inoculated traditional fermentations. 462 yeast strains isolated from wineries were identified and tested for several enzymatic activities of recognized interest for enology industry. Considering the 7 identified species, only Aureobasidium pullulans, Metschnikowia pulcherrima and Metschnikowia fructicola showed polygalacturonase activity. Because of its interest in winemaking, due to its reported incidence in wine flavor, the impact of M. pulcherrima as a source of pectinolytic enzymes was analyzed by measuring its influence in filterability, turbidity and the increase on color, anthocyanin and polyphenol content of wines fermented in combination with S. cerevisiae. Among the strains screened, M. pulcherrima NS-EM-34 was selected, due to its polygalacturonase activity, for further characterization in both, laboratory and semi-industrial scale assays. The kinetics concerning several metabolites of enological concern were followed during the entire fermentation process at microvinification scale. Improved results were obtained in the expected parameters when M. pulcherrima NS-EM-34 was used, in comparison to wines fermented with S. cerevisiae alone and combined with other pectinolytic and non-pectinolytic yeasts (A. pullulans and Lachancea thermotolerans, respectively), even working better than commercial enzymes preparations in most parameters. Additionally, M. pulcherrima NS-EM-34 was used at a semi-industrial scale combined with three different S. cerevisiae strains, confirming its potential application for red wine improvement on the mentioned sensorial and technological properties.

Yeasts isolated from figs (Ficus carica L.) as biocontrol agents of postharvest fruit diseases

Fresh fruit is highly perishable during postharvest life, mainly due to fungal growth. Thus, fungal control is an important goal for the fruit industry. In this work, a selection of antagonistic yeasts isolated from fig and breba crops were screened in vitro. The isolated yeasts were challenged with three moulds isolated from decayed figs and breba crops, identified as Penicillium expansum M639 and Cladosporium cladosporioides M310 and M624, and pathogenic moulds Botrytis cinerea CECT20518 and Monilia laxa CA1 from culture collections. Two yeast isolates, Hanseniaspora opuntiae L479 and Metschnikowia pulcherrima L672, were selected for their ability to inhibit the growth of aforementioned moulds. These yeasts reduced the radial growth of moulds on PDA by between 45.23% and 66.09%. Antagonistic activity was associated with the interaction of live yeast cells with moulds. M. pulcherrima L672 apparently parasitised C. cladosporioides isolates. In addition, challenges were assayed using wounded apples and nectarines, with significant reductions in percent infection and lesion size for all moulds tested. To our knowledge, this is the first report identifying H. opuntiae as an antagonist against different pathogenic moulds.

Antimicrobial activity of Metschnikowia pulcherrima on wine yeasts

AIMS

In the present study, it was investigated the antagonistic behaviour of Metschnikowia pulcherrima, as biocontrol agent, against the main wine yeast species involved in the winemaking process.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Seven strains of M. pulcherrima were evaluated for the antimicrobial activity against 114 yeast strains belonging to Pichia, Candida, Hanseniaspora, Kluyveromyces, Saccharomycodes, Torulaspora, Brettanomyces and Saccharomyces genera. Results showed both different inter-generic and intra-generic responses to the antimicrobial action of M. pulcherrima strains. Interestingly, the antimicrobial activity of M. pulcherrima did not have any influence on the growth of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Instead, M. pulcherrima displayed a broad and effective antimicrobial action on undesired wild spoilage yeasts, such as Brettanomyces/Dekkera, Hanseniaspora and Pichia genera. Fermentation trials carried out in synthetic grape must confirmed the antimicrobial activity of M. pulcherrima, determining the early death of the non-Saccharomyces co-inoculated cultures.

CONCLUSIONS

The antimicrobial activity of M. pulcherrima does not seem due to proteinaceous compounds such as killer phenomenon, but to the pulcherriminic acid (the precursor of pulcherrimin pigment) that depletes iron present in the medium, making it not available to the other yeasts.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

These data agree with and further support the potential use of selected M. pulcherrima strains in controlled multistarter fermentations with S. cerevisiae starter cultures.