Hidde, a researcher at TFTAK, has successfully defended his doctoral thesis, which explores the potential of oligopeptides as a nitrogen source for yeast in industrial fermentations. In this article, he discusses his findings on the role of oligopeptides in yeast fermentation processes, including their application in grain whisky production.
“My thesis focused on oligopeptides as a nitrogen source for yeast in industrial fermentations. Yeast requires nitrogen for fermentation and can take up various nitrogen sources from its environment. Oligopeptides, a significant potential nitrogen source, had not been extensively studied in relation to industrial substrates. This dissertation examined yeast’s ability to uptake oligopeptides, and the role of oligopeptides in industrial grain whisky fermentation, as a practical use case. We observed yeast consuming longer chain peptides than previously reported (the upper limit stood for over two decades!), systematic consumption of different peptide lengths, and successful fermentations with oligopeptides as the sole nitrogen source. In grain whisky fermentation, we investigated various nitrogen supplementation methods and clarified the role of oligopeptides in this process.
The aspect of this research that inspired me the most was observing its immediate relevance to the industry. The findings from this study can be directly implemented in various sectors that utilize yeast fermentation processes, as well as by those who develop fermentation additives. Receiving validation of this applicability from expert opponents was undoubtedly the most gratifying experience throughout my doctoral studies.
This thesis's range and results exemplify TFTAK's objectives and showcase the potential of our laboratories. TFTAK strives to address tangible, industry-related challenges for its clientele by employing scientific expertise and techniques, thereby bridging the gap between academic research and commercial applications. Conducting my research in this setting undoubtedly contributed to the timely completion of this project.
Looking ahead, I have secured a position as a senior researcher within TFTAK's bioprocess engineering group, where I can utilize my expertise to contribute to the development of novel fermentation processes. My involvement with TFTAK and Estonia is set to continue for the foreseeable future.”
Hidde defended his doctoral thesis "Oligopeptides as a Nitrogen Source for Saccharomyces cerevisiae in Industrial Fermentations. A Study on Oligopeptide Uptake and Transporter Function in Practical Applications" on December 18, 2024 in Tallinn. His supervisor was Dr. Ildar Nisamedtinov from Tallinn University of Technology. The digital version of Hidde’s thesis can be found here: https://doi.org/10.23658/taltech.69/2024.
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