Yeast species recognition from gene sequence analyses and other molecular methods

This review discusses DNA-based methods used for identification of yeasts. Nuclear DNA reassociation was the first quantitative molecular method employed for recognition of yeast species and has provided a baseline for interpretation of other molecular comparisons. Among these, gene sequencing is the most definitive method, with ribosomal RNA gene sequences providing the preponderance of available data. Multigene analyses that include the sequences of protein encoding genes are being increasingly developed to provide a more definitive resolution of species. A number of rapid identification methods, such as denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE), temperature gradient gel electrophoresis (TGGE), and flow cytometry, which are based on species-specific gene sequences, are available for use in diagnostic laboratories.