Physical methods for genetic transformation of fungi and yeast

• The physical methods used for genetic transformation of fungi and yeast are reviewed.
• The physics and molecular biology behind genetic fungi transformation are explained.
• Shock-wave-mediated transformation of fungi is more efficient than standard methods.
• Initial results on shock-wave-mediated transformation of fungi are given.

The production of transgenic fungi is a routine process. Currently, it is possible to insert genes from other fungi, viruses, bacteria and even animals, albeit with low efficiency, into the genomes of a number of fungal species. Genetic transformation requires the penetration of the transgene through the fungal cell wall, a process that can be facilitated by biological or physical methods. Novel methodologies for the efficient introduction of specific genes and stronger promoters are needed to increase production levels. A possible solution to this problem is the recently discovered shock-wave-mediated transformation. The objective of this article is to review the state of the art of the physical methods used for genetic fungi transformation and to describe some of the basic physics and molecular biology behind them.