Gene Transfer Mechanisms Overview

Vertical gene transfer is the transmission of genetic information from a parent to its offspring, while horizontal gene transfer refers to the transfer of genetic material between organisms that are not parent and offspring.

Free DNA serves as the genetic material that bacteria take up from their surroundings during transformation, typically originating from lysed bacterial cells.

Horizontal gene transfer is the process where an organism transfers genetic material to another organism that is not its offspring, allowing for rapid genetic changes and adaptability.

<p>Electroporation creates transient pores in cell membranes, allowing DNA to enter the cells.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Conjugation is a method of horizontal gene transfer where genetic material is transferred between bacteria through direct contact, often involving a pilus.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Calcium chloride increases the permeability of the cell membrane, making E.coli competent for transformation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Transformation introduces new genetic variations by allowing bacteria to incorporate free DNA from their environment into their genomes.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The primary method is by introducing recombinant plasmids into the cell's surroundings.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The two primary mechanisms of genetic transfer in bacteria are vertical gene transfer and horizontal gene transfer.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Heat shock is performed at temperatures ranging from 37°C to 42°C.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>After heat shock, the cells are returned to ice for at least 2 minutes before further processing.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Naturally competent bacteria, like Bacillus spp., can take up foreign DNA without assistance, while others must be made artificially competent.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Horizontal gene transfer can cause large-scale changes in a bacterial genome, leading to the acquisition of new traits and adaptability.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Vertical gene transfer may occur through asexual reproduction, sexual reproduction, or artificial means, transmitting genetic information to offspring.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Recombinant antibody production and gene therapy are two applications of gene transfer.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The F-factor acts as a DNA sequence that enables the donor bacterium to transfer genetic material to the recipient.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Transduction is the transfer of genetic material from one bacterium to another via viruses called bacteriophages.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>A field strength of greater than 15 kV/cm is typically required for electroporation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Electroporation creates transient pores in the plasma membrane, allowing for the uptake of foreign DNA into the cells.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The surface-to-volume ratio affects the heat-shock interval, which may need to be adjusted for smaller volumes.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Genetically modified organisms can lead to the production of improved crops and new pesticides/herbicides.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Electrocompetent cells are specifically treated to increase their ability to take up foreign DNA during electroporation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Bacterial conjugation involves the formation of a conjugation bridge, DNA transfer, DNA replication, and separation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Transduction is often used to introduce foreign genes stably into a host cell's genome.</p> Signup and view all the answers