What is transformation in bacteria?

What is transformation in bacteria?

• A. Direct uptake of donor DNA by recipient cell
• B. Transfer of DNA via bacteriophages
• C. Transfer of plasmid via conjugation
• D. Uptake of nutrients

Answer: (A)

Transformation is the uptake of naked DNA from the surrounding environment by a competent bacterial cell. The donor DNA can then recombine with the recipient’s genome or exist as a plasmid, giving the cell new genetic traits. This process happens without cell-to-cell contact or bacteriophages. That’s why the description of the recipient directly taking up donor DNA best captures transformation. In contrast, transfer via bacteriophages (transduction) involves viruses carrying DNA between cells, and transfer of plasmids through direct cell contact (conjugation) requires a pilus. Uptake of nutrients is not DNA transfer.

Transformation is the uptake of naked DNA from the surrounding environment by a competent bacterial cell. The donor DNA can then recombine with the recipient’s genome or exist as a plasmid, giving the cell new genetic traits. This process happens without cell-to-cell contact or bacteriophages. That’s why the description of the recipient directly taking up donor DNA best captures transformation.

In contrast, transfer via bacteriophages (transduction) involves viruses carrying DNA between cells, and transfer of plasmids through direct cell contact (conjugation) requires a pilus. Uptake of nutrients is not DNA transfer.