Pichia pastoris is a species of yeast commonly used in biotechnology for protein production. It is favored for its ability to grow rapidly and efficiently in simple media, making it cost-effective for large-scale applications. This yeast can perform post-translational modifications, which are essential for producing functional proteins. Researchers often use Pichia pastoris to express recombinant proteins, including enzymes and antibodies. Its strong promoter systems allow for high levels of protein expression, and it can be cultured in various conditions, including aerobic and anaerobic environments. This versatility makes it a valuable tool in molecular biology and industrial processes.