Effects of sterol alterations on nystatin sensitivity in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Richman-Boytas, C.M.; Parks, L.W.
Microbios 59(239): 101-111
1989
ISSN/ISBN: 0026-2633 PMID: 2682140 Document Number: 340397
A systematic study of the qualitative and quantitative effects of sterol on nystatin sensitivity has been made in a single organism. The use of a sterol auxotroph of Saccharomyces cerevisiae offered a convenient way to control the sterol content of the yeast cell. There was a correlation between the ergosterol content of the cell and sensitivity to nystatin, as monitored by both potassium leakage from the cell and viability. When the sterol auxotroph contained high levels of ergosterol, the cells were sensitive to the effects of nystatin. When the ergosterol content was low or when ergosterol was replaced by cholesterol or cholestanol, sensitivity to nystatin was markedly decreased. Although resistabt to nystatin, cholestanol enriched cells showed an enhanced background of potassium ion loss.