Abstract
Changes in the level of reserve carbohydrates, cell number, viability and medium pH values were observed in aerobically starving baker's yeast. The starvation was carried out at 35°C in the physiological saline solution using two different initial pH values (4·4 or 5·5) of the medium. In addition, the formation of ethanol and acetate as well as actual and endogenous respirations were measured at a pH of 4·4. The results revealed that the initial pH value of the medium affected the pattern of glycogen and trehalose degradation and consequently, also caused the loss of viability and cell lysis. Changes in the quantity of metabolic products and respiration activity are discussed in connection with the metabolism of the starving cells and the effect of environmental conditions.