S288C

S288C is a widely used laboratory strain of the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, commonly known as baker’s or brewer’s yeast. This strain has played a pivotal role in genetic and molecular biology research due to its well-characterized genome and ease of genetic manipulation. S288C was originally derived from a natural isolate but has since been extensively domesticated and standardized for laboratory use.

The genome of S288C was fully sequenced in 1996, providing a comprehensive reference for yeast genetics. It possesses approximately 12 million base pairs and around 6,000 genes, making it a model organism for studying eukaryotic cellular processes such as cell cycle, metabolism, and gene regulation. Its genetic stability and reproducibility have contributed to a broad range of research applications, including functional genomics, proteomics, and systems biology.

S288C is often used as the parental strain in creating various mutant libraries and genetically modified lines. Its genetic background makes it amenable to gene deletions, insertions, and other modifications using standard molecular biology techniques. The strain's properties have facilitated the development of yeast as a model for understanding human diseases and for biotechnological processes such as biofuel production and pharmaceutical synthesis.

Overall, S288C continues to be a fundamental resource in yeast research, serving as a reference point for comparative genomics and functional studies. Its comprehensive characterization and genetic tractability have cemented its status as a foundational strain within the scientific community.