Yeast‐Based Biotechnology for Civilian Security

TL;DR

Yeast biotechnology offers low-cost and sustainable solutions for detecting and neutralizing chemical and biological threats, with applications in security and environmental protection.

Contribution

The paper highlights novel yeast-based platforms for biosensing, bioremediation, and vaccine development to address hybrid biological and chemical threats.

Findings

Recombinant yeast cells can detect heavy metals, organic pollutants, and endocrine-disrupting compounds.

Yeast-based systems enable detoxification of mycotoxins and support vaccine development using RNA and antigen-display systems.

Yeast biotechnology provides scalable and sustainable solutions for biosecurity and environmental protection.

Abstract

Yeasts are remarkably versatile microorganisms whose applications reach far beyond their traditional roles in fermentation. In recent years, they have also emerged as valuable tools in areas related to biosecurity and civilian protection. This paper explores how both conventional and non‐conventional yeast can contribute to the detection, neutralisation, and prevention of biological and chemical threats. We review the use of recombinant yeast cells in biosensors for heavy metals, organic pollutants and endocrine‐disrupting compounds, as well as their role in bioremediation and toxin removal. Special attention is given to the development of yeast‐based vaccine platforms, including RNA and antigen‐display systems using
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
and Komagataella phaffii. These technologies illustrate how yeast can bridge biotechnology and security, offering low‐cost, scalable and sustainable solutions. However, practical deployment still faces challenges such as biosensor stability, regulatory barriers for genetically modified strains and the need for standardised calibration. Altogether, yeast biotechnology is positioned as a promising and resilient component of future biodefense and environmental protection strategies, strengthening preparedness in the face of hybrid biological and chemical threats.

Yeasts constitute robust and versatile eukaryotic platforms for biotechnological applications relevant to civilian security. Both native and genetically engineered yeast systems enable sensitive detection of chemical and biological hazards, effective removal of metals and organic pollutants, and detoxification of mycotoxins. In parallel, yeast‐based platforms support vaccine development and anti‐toxin strategies, highlighting their potential as scalable, cost‐effective and sustainable tools for detection, neutralisation and prevention of hybrid threats.

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