Asked by Bobbie Alvarez on May 01, 2024
Verified
Which of the following describes the process of transformation?
A) crossing-over between paired chromosomes in meiosis
B) a bacteria cell passing DNA to another bacterial cell by means of a sex pilus
C) virus carries DNA from a previous host cell to a new host cell
D) live bacterium picks up DNA from a dead bacterium
E) one bacterial cell dividing to form two bacterial cells
Transformation
In genetics, a process by which the genetic material carried by an individual cell is altered by the incorporation of foreign DNA from its surroundings.
Sex Pilus
A thin, tube-like structure used by some bacteria to transfer genetic material to another bacterium during conjugation.
- Familiarize oneself with the mechanisms of horizontal gene transfer in bacteria and the ensuing implications.
Verified Answer
MA
Mohammed AlghamdiMay 07, 2024
Final Answer :
D
Explanation :
Transformation is the process by which a live bacterium takes up DNA from the environment (often from a dead bacterium) and incorporates it into its own genome. This is different from conjugation (option B) where two bacteria exchange genetic material via a sex pilus or from transduction (option C) where a virus transfers DNA from one host cell to another. Crossing-over in meiosis (option A) is a process that shuffles genetic information between homologous chromosomes and occurs during the formation of gametes. Bacterial cell division (option E) is a process of asexual reproduction and does not involve the transfer of genetic material between cells.
Learning Objectives
- Familiarize oneself with the mechanisms of horizontal gene transfer in bacteria and the ensuing implications.