Microbial Genetics

Flashcards covering key concepts related to microbial genetics, focusing on genetic transfer, plasmids, and mechanisms affecting microbial functions.

Recombinant DNA

DNA that has been formed artificially by combining constituents from different organisms.

F factor (Conjugated plasmid)

A plasmid that enables a microbe to produce sex pili, facilitating the transfer of plasmids between cells.

Virulence plasmid

Plasmids that carry genes enhancing the pathogenicity of microbes.

Dissimilation plasmid

Plasmids that encode enzymes for the metabolism of specific sugars and hydrocarbons.

Choleplasma (Cholechinogenic factor)

Plasmid responsible for the production of cholecines, which possess antibiotic activity.

Resistance factor (R factor)

A type of plasmid that carries genes providing resistance to antibiotics and toxic substances.

RTF (Resistance Transfer Factor)

Part of a resistance plasmid enabling the transfer of resistance genes between bacteria.

Transposon

A DNA sequence that can change its position within the genome, potentially carrying antibiotic resistance genes.

Conjugation

A process of genetic transfer that requires direct cell-to-cell contact, usually mediated by an F factor.

Competent Microbe

A microbe capable of taking up foreign DNA from its environment.

Transformation

The process by which a competent microbe takes up naked DNA from its environment.

Transduction

The transfer of bacterial DNA via a virus.