Microbiology: Horizontal Gene Transfer & Molecular Identification of Pathogens

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to horizontal gene transfer and molecular identification techniques in microbiology, based on the lecture notes.

Horizontal Gene Transfer

The process by which bacteria can acquire genetic material from other bacteria, including transformation, transduction, and conjugation.

Griffith’s Experiment

Demonstrated that DNA is the transforming principle in bacteria using Streptococcus pneumoniae.

Transformation

The direct uptake of naked DNA by a competent bacterium.

Competent Bacteria

Bacteria that are capable of taking up DNA.

Bacillus spp.

A genus of bacteria that are naturally competent for transformation.

Conjugation

The transfer of DNA between bacteria through direct connection.

Transduction

The process of transferring DNA from one bacterium to another via bacteriophages.

Transposons

Segments of DNA that can move locations within the genome, also known as 'jumping genes'.

Barbara McClintock

The scientist who discovered transposons.

Molecular Genetics

The field of science that uses DNA sequencing and other techniques to identify unknown pathogens.

PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction)

A technique used to amplify and detect DNA.

Restriction Endonucleases

Enzymes that recognize specific DNA sequences and cleave the phosphodiester bond.

Ribotyping

A molecular technique that involves analyzing the 16S rRNA gene to identify bacteria.

Direct Fluorescence Antibody (DFA) Assay

A diagnostic test that uses antibodies labeled with fluorescent dye to detect specific antigens.

Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH)

A technique that uses fluorescently labeled probes to detect specific nucleic acid sequences in cells.

16S/18S rRNA gene

A component of the ribosomal RNA that is commonly used in the identification and classification of bacteria.