Antifungal proteins from yeast for controlling spoilage fungi in food
Innovative antifungal proteins produced by yeasts offer a natural solution to inhibit spoilage fungi in food products. These proteins, known as killer toxins, are effective at low pH and can enhance food preservation efforts in the industry.
Overview
Antifungal proteins, historically known as "killer toxins," are produced by yeasts and offer a natural solution to combat spoilage fungi in food products. These proteins have demonstrated the ability to inhibit a wide range of yeast species, which are relevant to human, animal, and plant diseases. By applying these proteins, the food industry can prevent the growth of spoilage organisms, thus enhancing the shelf life and safety of foodstuffs.
Technical specifications
Our research focuses on yeast strains that produce antifungal proteins with optimal activity at low pH, making them particularly effective in acidic food environments. We have an extensive collection of over 500 killer toxin-producing yeast strains, screened using high-throughput robotic techniques. The ongoing project aims to identify the most efficacious killer toxins for inhibiting economically significant spoilage fungi. Genetic sequencing and molecular biology techniques will be employed to pinpoint the proteins responsible for these antifungal activities.
Technology readiness level
Currently at a Technology Readiness Level of 3, this research is in the experimental proof of concept stage. We are actively identifying specific antifungal proteins and validating their effectiveness against spoilage fungi relevant to the food industry.
About University of Idaho
Founded as Idaho’s land‑grant, the University of Idaho is a comprehensive public research university with a statewide footprint anchored in Moscow. Industry engages through a Post Falls research park that co‑locates companies with faculty, multi‑campus centers in Boise, Coeur d’Alene and Idaho Falls, and an Extension network active in 42 counties. Proximity and formal agreements with Idaho National Laboratory provide a direct conduit to national‑lab expertise and shared facilities in Idaho Falls. Research is backed by competitive federal funding from agencies such as the National Science Foundation, U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Department of Energy. A dedicated technology transfer office supports IP strategy, licensing and startup formation.
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