Genetic Diversity and Transformation in Prokaryotes

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to genetic diversity and the mechanisms of transformation in prokaryotes.

Genetic Diversity

The amount of variation at the level of the DNA sequence within and among populations.

Vertical Gene Transfer

The transmission of genetic material from parent to offspring.

Horizontal Gene Transfer

The transfer of genetic material between organisms, in contrast to vertical gene transfer.

Transformation

The process of importing free DNA into bacterial cells.

Transduction

The introduction of foreign DNA into a bacterial cell through a virus (bacteriophage).

Conjugation

The process by which DNA and plasmids are exchanged from a donor cell to a recipient cell across a physical connection.

Mutations

Changes in the DNA sequence that can lead to genetic diversity.

Competence

The ability of a cell to take up extracellular DNA from its environment.

Competence Factor (CF)

A species-specific factor released by bacteria that enables transformation.

Transformasome

The protein complex required for transformation in bacteria.

Gram-positive bacteria

Bacteria that have a thick peptidoglycan layer in their cell wall and utilize transformasomes for transformation.

Gram-negative bacteria

Bacteria that have an additional outer membrane and require a different mechanism for transformation.

Naked DNA

DNA that is free in the environment, lacking protective proteins and lipids.

Bacteriophage

A virus that infects bacteria, can facilitate transduction.

Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS)

Chemically reactive molecules containing oxygen that can damage DNA and contribute to mutations.

Antibiotic Resistance

The ability of bacteria to survive and multiply in the presence of antibiotics, often facilitated by horizontal gene transfer.