Transformation

Definition

Transformation is the genetic alteration of a prokaryotic cell resulting from the direct uptake and incorporation of exogenous genetic material. This process allows for genetic diversity in asexual prokaryotes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Transformation involves the uptake of naked DNA from the environment by a bacterial cell.
2. Competent cells are capable of taking up foreign DNA during transformation.
3. Transformation can be natural or induced artificially in laboratory settings.
4. The Griffith experiment demonstrated transformation by showing that non-virulent bacteria could become virulent when exposed to heat-killed virulent bacteria.
5. Plasmid vectors are often used in genetic engineering to introduce new genes into bacteria via transformation.

Review Questions

• What is required for a bacterial cell to undergo transformation?
• How did the Griffith experiment contribute to our understanding of transformation?
• Why is transformation important in genetic engineering?

Related terms

Conjugation:

A process where genetic material is transferred between bacterial cells through direct contact.

Transduction:

The transfer of bacterial genes by viruses known as bacteriophages.

Plasmid:

A small, circular piece of DNA that exists independently of chromosomal DNA and can replicate on its own.