# Saccharomyces cerevisiae RC14

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/saccharomyces-cerevisiae-rc14
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-04-03
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** Fermented/Probiotic
**Also Known As:** S. cerevisiae RC14, RC14 strain, Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain RC14, RC-14

## Overview

Saccharomyces cerevisiae RC14 is a specific yeast strain within the Saccharomyces cerevisiae species, characterized by its cell wall components including beta-glucans and mannoproteins that may interact with immune pattern recognition receptors. As of current available literature, strain-specific clinical data for RC14 remains unpublished, though closely related S. cerevisiae strains demonstrate measurable [immunomodulatory](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) and antimicrobial mechanisms.

## Health Benefits

• No specific health benefits documented for RC14 strain - research unavailable
• Related S. cerevisiae CNCM I-3856 shows 90% reduction in Gardnerella vaginal infection load (preclinical mouse studies only)
• S. cerevisiae SC28-7 demonstrates [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects reducing IL-1β and IFN-γ in colitis models (animal studies, no human trials)
• SC28-7 strain improves [gut barrier](/ingredients/condition/gut-health) function by enhancing Muc2, Muc3, ZO-1, and occludin expression (preclinical evidence only)
• CNCM I-3856 inhibits Candida hyphal genes HWP1, ECE1, SAP2, and SAP6 (in vitro and animal models, no clinical validation)

## Mechanism of Action

S. cerevisiae strains generally exert effects through beta-1,3/1,6-glucans binding to Dectin-1 receptors on macrophages and dendritic cells, triggering NF-κB and CARD9 signaling pathways that modulate cytokine production including IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-10. Mannoproteins in the yeast cell wall interact with toll-like receptors (TLR2, TLR4), influencing downstream [inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) cascades. Related strain CNCM I-3856 has been shown to competitively inhibit Gardnerella vaginalis adhesion to vaginal epithelial cells, suggesting surface-level competitive exclusion as an additional mechanism, though whether RC14 shares this property is unconfirmed.

## Clinical Summary

No published clinical trials or preclinical studies specifically investigating the RC14 strain of S. cerevisiae are currently available in peer-reviewed literature. Evidence is extrapolated from related strains: S. cerevisiae CNCM I-3856 demonstrated a 90% reduction in Gardnerella vaginalis load in preclinical mouse models, representing early-stage evidence only. S. cerevisiae SC28-7 reduced [pro-inflammatory cytokine](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)s IL-1β and IFN-γ in colitis animal models, indicating anti-inflammatory potential within this species. The overall evidence base for RC14 specifically is absent, and any claimed benefits require independent strain-level validation before clinical recommendations can be made.

## Nutritional Profile

Saccharomyces cerevisiae RC14 is a yeast-based [probiotic](/ingredients/condition/gut-health) strain with a nutritional composition broadly consistent with S. cerevisiae species, though strain-specific concentration data for RC14 is not independently published. General S. cerevisiae cell composition provides the following reference framework per dry weight basis: Protein: 40–50% dry weight, containing all essential amino acids including lysine (~3.5g/100g protein) and leucine (~7g/100g protein), though bioavailability is partially limited by cell wall encapsulation. B-vitamins: Thiamine (B1) ~10–15 mg/100g dry weight, Riboflavin (B2) ~4–6 mg/100g dry weight, Niacin (B3) ~30–50 mg/100g dry weight, Pyridoxine (B6) ~3–5 mg/100g dry weight, Folate ~1–2 mg/100g dry weight; B12 is absent unless fortified. Minerals: Zinc 5–10 mg/100g dry weight, Selenium variable (strain/media-dependent, typically 0.1–0.3 mg/100g in unfortified forms), Chromium ~0.1–0.2 mg/100g dry weight, Potassium ~1700–2000 mg/100g dry weight, Phosphorus ~1300–1600 mg/100g dry weight. Bioactive compounds: Beta-glucans (1,3/1,6-linked) comprising 10–15% of dry cell wall weight — known [immunomodulatory](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) activity with good oral bioactivity via Peyer's patch receptor binding (Dectin-1). Mannoproteins: 15–25% of cell wall dry weight, contribute to mucosal adhesion properties. [Glutathione](/ingredients/condition/detox): ~1–3 mg/g dry weight, an endogenous [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) tripeptide with limited systemic bioavailability post-oral dosing. Trehalose: present intracellularly at ~5–15% dry weight depending on growth conditions, functions as a stress protectant. Ergosterol (provitamin D2 precursor): ~2–5 mg/g dry weight in standard culture; UV-activated forms can yield significant vitamin D2, but RC14-specific activation status is undocumented. Lipid content: ~4–7% dry weight, predominantly unsaturated fatty acids (oleic, palmitoleic). Fiber equivalent (cell wall polysaccharides): ~25–35% dry weight total. Bioavailability note: As a whole-cell probiotic preparation, intracellular nutrients are partially protected by the cell wall, reducing immediate bioavailability compared to lysed yeast extracts; however, cell wall components (beta-glucans, mannoproteins) are themselves bioactive and do not require cell lysis for effect. RC14 strain-specific nutritional characterization has not been published in peer-reviewed literature as of available data.

## Dosage & Preparation

No clinically studied dosages exist for S. cerevisiae RC14 in any form. Related S. boulardii strains typically use 10^9 CFU/day, but RC14 lacks standardization data or human dosing studies. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

General S. cerevisiae supplementation is considered well-tolerated in immunocompetent adults, with the most commonly reported adverse effects being mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating and flatulence. Individuals with documented yeast allergies or hypersensitivity to Saccharomyces species should avoid RC14 and related strains due to cross-reactivity risk. Immunocompromised individuals, including those on corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, or biologic immunosuppressants, should avoid live yeast supplements as fungemia, though rare, has been reported with Saccharomyces supplementation in severely immunosuppressed patients. Pregnancy and lactation safety for RC14 specifically has not been established, and use during these periods should only occur under medical supervision.

## Scientific Research

No human clinical trials, RCTs, or meta-analyses exist for Saccharomyces cerevisiae RC14. Available research consists only of preclinical studies on other S. cerevisiae strains in animal models and in vitro systems, with no PMIDs provided in the research dossier.

## Historical & Cultural Context

No traditional medicine history exists for RC14 specifically. Related S. cerevisiae strains like SC28-7 originate from Korean nuruk fermentation starters used in alcohol brewing, selected for modern [probiotic](/ingredients/condition/gut-health) applications rather than historical therapeutic use.

## Synergistic Combinations

No synergistic ingredients identified due to lack of RC14 research

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is Saccharomyces cerevisiae RC14 used for?

Saccharomyces cerevisiae RC14 is a specific yeast strain within the S. cerevisiae species, but no published studies have documented strain-specific uses or confirmed health benefits for RC14. Research on related strains suggests potential roles in vaginal microbiome support and immunomodulation, but these findings cannot be directly attributed to RC14 without dedicated studies.

### Is Saccharomyces cerevisiae RC14 the same as brewer's yeast?

Saccharomyces cerevisiae RC14 belongs to the same species as brewer's yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae), but it is a distinct strain with a unique genetic profile and potentially different functional properties. Strain-level differences in S. cerevisiae can significantly alter cell wall composition, mannoprotein expression, and beta-glucan content, meaning RC14's properties may differ substantially from standard brewer's yeast supplements.

### Does Saccharomyces cerevisiae RC14 help with vaginal health?

There is no direct evidence that RC14 specifically benefits vaginal health. The closely related strain S. cerevisiae CNCM I-3856 reduced Gardnerella vaginalis load by approximately 90% in preclinical mouse studies through competitive adhesion inhibition on vaginal epithelial cells, but this data has not been replicated in human trials and cannot be extrapolated to RC14 without confirmatory research.

### What are the side effects of Saccharomyces cerevisiae RC14?

Strain-specific safety data for RC14 is not available in published literature. Based on the broader S. cerevisiae species profile, expected side effects include mild gastrointestinal discomfort such as bloating, gas, and loose stools, particularly at higher doses. Individuals with Saccharomyces or general yeast allergies may experience hypersensitivity reactions including urticaria or respiratory symptoms.

### How does Saccharomyces cerevisiae RC14 differ from other Saccharomyces strains?

Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains are differentiated by their specific genetic sequences, cell wall mannoprotein profiles, beta-glucan structures, and metabolic outputs, all of which influence their biological activity. For example, strain CNCM I-3856 has documented vaginal epithelial adhesion properties, while SC28-7 shows anti-inflammatory cytokine modulation reducing IL-1β and IFN-γ. RC14's unique differentiating characteristics have not been characterized in available published research.

### What does the research evidence show for Saccharomyces cerevisiae RC14?

Currently, there are no peer-reviewed clinical studies documenting specific health benefits for the RC14 strain itself. While related Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains (such as CNCM I-3856 and SC28-7) have shown promise in preclinical animal studies for vaginal and gut health, these results have not been replicated in human trials. Consumers should be aware that RC14 marketing claims may outpace the available scientific evidence.

### Is Saccharomyces cerevisiae RC14 safe for children?

Saccharomyces cerevisiae RC14 is generally recognized as safe for most populations due to its origin as a food-grade yeast strain; however, safety data in children specifically is limited. Parents considering this supplement for children should consult a pediatrician, particularly if the child has a weakened immune system or yeast sensitivity. No specific pediatric dosing guidelines exist for this strain.

### How does Saccharomyces cerevisiae RC14 compare to related probiotic yeast strains in effectiveness?

RC14 lacks direct head-to-head clinical comparison data against other Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains like CNCM I-3856 or SC28-7. While those related strains have published preclinical evidence, there is no documented research showing RC14 performs similarly or differently. The absence of human trial data for RC14 makes it difficult to definitively rank its effectiveness relative to other marketed yeast probiotics.

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*Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com*
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