What is replication?
The process of duplicating an entire DNA molecule to produce two identical daughter DNA strands
Replication ensures that genetic information is passed on during cell division.
What is transcription?
The process of rewriting the DNA sequence of a specific gene into a molecule of messenger RNA (mRNA)
Transcription is the first step in gene expression.
What is translation?
The process of decoding the mRNA sequence to build a chain of amino acids, which folds into a protein
Translation is the final step in gene expression, resulting in protein synthesis.
Define a gene.
A segment of DNA that typically encodes a protein
The protein must be produced for the phenotype to be expressed.
What are the three means for genetic recombination in bacteria?
- Conjugation
- Transformation
- Transduction
Each method involves different mechanisms for genetic material exchange.
Describe conjugation.
Transfer of a plasmid or chromosomal fragment from a donor cell to a recipient cell via direct connection
Involves a Gram-negative cell donor with a plasmid that synthesizes a conjugative pilus.
What occurs during transformation?
Chromosome fragments from a lysed cell are accepted by a recipient cell; the genetic code of the DNA fragment is acquired by the recipient
The donor cell is dead and the donor and recipient do not have to be related.
What is transduction?
A bacteriophage serves as a carrier of DNA from a donor cell to a recipient cell
There are two types: generalized and specialized transduction.
Define generalized transduction.
Random fragments of disintegrating host DNA are picked up by the phage during assembly; any gene can be transmitted this way
This process allows for a wide range of genetic material to be transferred.
Define specialized transduction.
A highly specific part of the host genome is regularly incorporated into the virus
This process allows for the transfer of specific genes.
