Carotenoid synthesis in the yeasts Rhodosporidium and Rhodotorula

The search for biologically active compounds synthesized by microorganisms as well as increasing the synthesis of those already studied is currently an urgent task of modern biotechnology. This is due to the possibility of obtaining by microbial synthesis of various useful products rich in vitamins lipids proteins trace elements and other biologically active substances. At this period of time of great interest for science and various spheres of life are carotenoids which are the most numerous and widespread group of natural pigments. Every year the need for carotenoids is increasing which requires the development of all possible sources for their production as well as the discovery of new ways to obtain them. Carotenoids are produced by higher plants algae a number of chemotrophic and phototrophic bacteria. In addition carotenoids are synthesized by some mycelial fungi as well as by yeast.