Genetic Transfer and Recombination in Bacteria

Recombination

Exchange of DNA fragments between two chromosomes.

Genetic Transfer

Process where DNA strands enter one bacterial cell.

Transformation

Uptake of DNA from dead donor by live recipient.

Conjugation

Direct transfer of DNA via physical connection.

Transduction

Transfer of DNA via bacteriophage infection.

Bacteriophage

Virus that infects and replicates within bacteria.

Crossing Over

Contact between chromosomes leading to DNA exchange.

Recombinant Cell

Cell with new genetic combination after recombination.

Hfr Cell

High-frequency recombination cell with integrated plasmid.

F+ Cell

Bacterial cell with genes for sex pilus.

F- Cell

Bacterial cell lacking genes for sex pilus.

Plasmid

Small DNA molecule separate from chromosomal DNA.

Transducing Phage

Phage carrying bacterial DNA to recipient cell.

Pathogenicity

Ability of an organism to cause disease.

Avirulent

Non-pathogenic strain of bacteria.

Virulent

Pathogenic strain capable of causing disease.

Antibiotic Resistance

Ability of bacteria to survive antibiotic treatment.

Recipient Cell

Cell that receives DNA during genetic transfer.

Donor Cell

Cell that provides DNA to recipient.

Chromosome

Single, circular DNA molecule in bacteria.

Genotype

Genetic constitution of an organism.

Lysis

Breakdown of a cell, releasing its contents.

Complementary Bases

Nucleotide pairs that align during DNA recombination.

Environmental DNA

DNA fragments present in the surrounding environment.