Researchers from the Cockrell School of Engineering at the University of Texas at Austin have developed yeast cells that produce enough lipids to potentially replace petroleum based products. The discovery, noted on the university’s website, may lead to enhanced biofuel production that can compete with conventional fuel production.
The new, mutant yeast strain is in line with Department of Energy objectives to create renewable and economically competitive biofuels, according to the article. The yeast cell also has the potential for use in biochemical production of oleochemicals, used to manufacture various household products.