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As a consequence of climate change, long periods of drought – caused by low rainfall and increased water evaporation from the soil – are becoming more frequent. Drought and water scarcity in nature negatively affect not only humans and animals, but also plants, which are a key component of human nutrition. When a plant lacks suitable conditions, such as sufficient water, it reduces its metabolic activity, which in turn limits its growth and fruit production.

A research team at the Institute of Chemistry of the Slovak Academy of Sciences (SAS) has focused on tackling this problem through the use of biostimulants. “In crisis situations, plants redirect energy into defense mechanisms, such as closing stomata (to reduce water loss through evaporation) and increasing the synthesis of osmolytes (which help maintain cell pressure and protect proteins from damage). The antioxidant system is also strengthened, neutralizing radicals produced as a result of stress, alongside many other defense processes”, explains Karin Kollárová, head of the research group from the Department of Glycobiotechnology at the Institute of Chemistry SAS.

For farmers, prolonged drought means severe yield losses and high associated costs. One potential solution could be biostimulants made from yeasts.

“Plant-specific yeasts are tiny microorganisms naturally found in soil, so adding them to crops does not disrupt the soil microbiome, nor does it burden the soil or water. Applying yeasts is environmentally friendly. Unlike artificial fertilizers, they do not need to be applied as often, which reduces costs. Another advantage is that yeasts release organic substances into their surroundings, which require energy to produce. By absorbing these compounds, the plant saves its own energy, which it can then invest into growth or fruit production,” explains Zuzana Vivodová from the research team.

The challenge is that each crop species – particularly agriculturally important ones – benefits from different yeast strains and in varying amounts. Previous research by SAS scientists has shown that a specific yeast strain improved the vitality of maize plants, both under favorable conditions and during drought. Current investigations are focused on wheat, one of the most widely cultivated cereals in Slovakia and Europe.

“In 2024, Slovakia’s wheat yield decreased by approximately 17% due to drought. If extreme drought occurs during the flowering stage, yield losses may reach as high as 50%. Adding beneficial yeasts to wheat, either into the soil or directly onto plants, could significantly reduce yield losses, improve production and water management, and secure sufficient wheat both for food and feed,” the researchers conclude.

Research group leader: RNDr. Karin Kollárová, PhD.

Contact person: Filip Květon, Institute of Chemistry SAS