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What is conjugation in bacteria?
Quick Answer
Conjugation is a form of gene transfer in which one bacterium passes DNA to another through direct contact. It often involves a plasmid and a structure called a pilus.
The Full Story
Bacterial conjugation is a direct cell-to-cell transfer of genetic material, usually via a plasmid. One bacterium forms a physical connection to another, often using a pilus, and copies of the DNA are transferred. This is important because it can spread useful genes, including antibiotic resistance, through bacterial populations. Conjugation was first worked out in the mid-20th century and remains a major topic in microbiology.
Key Facts
1.Requires direct contact between bacteria
2.Often transfers plasmids
3.Can spread antibiotic resistance genes
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"Bacteria that pass DNA hand-to-hand"
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