Overexpression of <i>OLE1</i> Enhances Cytoplasmic Membrane Stability and Confers Resistance to Cadmium in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Abstract

A S. cerevisiae gene encoding a delta-9 desaturase, OLE1, was associated with high anti-cadmium-stress activity. The data suggest that the regulation of OLE1 in the synthesis of unsaturated fatty acids may serve as a positive feedback mechanism to help yeast cells counter the lipid peroxidation and cytoplasmic membrane damage caused by cadmium. The discovery of OLE1 involvement in membrane stability may indicate a novel defense strategy against cadmium stress.