Specialized transduction is a process where a bacteriophage transfers specific portions of the bacterial genome to another bacterium. This occurs during the lysogenic cycle when prophage excision includes adjacent bacterial genes.
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Specialized transduction involves the transfer of specific bacterial genes, unlike generalized transduction which can transfer any part of the bacterial DNA.
It is facilitated by temperate phages that integrate their DNA into the host genome during the lysogenic cycle.
Errors in prophage excision result in the inclusion of neighboring bacterial genes within the phage DNA.
This process can lead to significant genetic changes and contribute to bacterial evolution and diversity.
The transferred genes can include virulence factors or antibiotic resistance genes, impacting pathogenicity and treatment.
Review Questions
What distinguishes specialized transduction from generalized transduction?
How does an error in prophage excision lead to specialized transduction?
In what way does specialized transduction contribute to bacterial genetic diversity?
Related terms
Lysogenic Cycle: A viral replication cycle where the phage DNA integrates into the host genome and replicates along with it without causing immediate lysis.
Prophage: Viral DNA that is integrated into the host bacterium's genome during the lysogenic cycle.
Temperate Phage: A type of bacteriophage that can undergo both lytic and lysogenic cycles.