Genome and Transcriptome Analysis of the Food-Yeast Candida utilis

The industrially important food-yeast Candida utilis is a Crabtree effect-negative yeast used to produce valuable chemicals and recombinant proteins. In the present study, we conducted whole genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of C. utilis, which showed that this yeast diverged long before the formation of the CUG and Saccharomyces/Kluyveromyces clades. In addition, we performed comparative genome and transcriptome analyses using next-generation sequencing, which resulted in the identification of genes important for characteristic phenotypes of C. utilis such as those involved in nitrate assimilation, in addition to the gene encoding the functional hexose transporter. We also found that an antisense transcript of the alcohol dehydrogenase gene, which in silico analysis did not predict to be a functional gene, was transcribed in the stationary-phase, suggesting a novel system of repression of ethanol production. These findings should facilitate the development of more sophisticated systems for the production of useful reagents using C. utilis

The interest of the Spanish network of investigators in back pain for rehabilitation physician

Background: The Spanish Back Pain Research Network (REIDE) brings together teams of researchers and clinicians who are interested in nonspecific neck and back pain (BP). Its objective is to improve the efficacy, safety, effectiveness, and efficiency of the clinical management of BP. Method: The Network welcomes clinicians and researchers interested in BP. The only requirement to become a member of REIDE is to take part in one of its research projects, and any member can propose a new one. The Network supports those projects that are of interest to two or more groups by assuming their administration and management, which allows the researchers to focus on their task. Its working method ensures methodological quality, a multidisciplinary approach, and the clinical relevance of those projects that are carried out. Results: 179 researchers from 11 areas in Spain are involved in REIDE, including experts in all of the relevant fields of BP research. Most Spanish studies on BP that have been published in international scientific journals come from the teams involved in REIDE, and it currently has 13 ongoing research projects. Conclusions: The Network can help to enhance research among rehabilitation specialists who are interested in BP, and can contribute to the development of research projects which are of interest to the specialty. © 2005 Sociedad Española de Rehabilitación y Medicina Física (SERMEF) y Elsevier España, S.L