Transposons, Plasmids, and Conjugation Flashcards
true or false, each gene encodes a single protein or RNA molecule
true
Other than a bacteria’s genome, how can it obtain additional sources of DNA?
1) via plasmids
2) genetic transfer from other bacteria
A DNA molecule that is physically seperate from the chromosomes is called? what info would this carry?
Plasmids
they usually contain non - essential genes
Explain what plasmids are
- extrachromosomal DNA
- usually circular
- self replicating (independent of chromosome)
- large plasmids have low copy number, small plasmids have high copy number
True or false, a cell can contain multiple copies of a plasmid AND multiple different plasmids
True
What is Curing?
The elimination of a plasmid. Curing inhibit the replication of a plasmid without affecting chromosomal replication.
what is an example of a curing agent?
Acridine Orange
What is an episome?
a type of plasmid that can exist separate from a chromosome but can also integrate itself into one
what are conjugated Plasmids
- contain genes for sex pili which make them self transmissible via conjugation
- they can transfer a copy of themselves to other bacteria
what are Non-conjugated Plasmids
- they are NOT SELF TRANSMISSIBLE
- however if they are in a cell with conjugated plasmids they can replicate and sneak a copy of themselves through pre made sex pilus
What significance does plasmids have in pathogenesis?
they can create a rapid spread of resistance to anti- biotic drugs
What is a well known conjugative plasmid in E. Coli?
Fertility factors aka F factors. These are also episomes.
what are Tra genes?
short for transfer genes which are the genes responsible for the transfer of conjugated plasmids. (make sex pilus)
What is a resistance factor?
- R factors are plasmids that code enzymes that destroy anti-biotic drugs
- single gene can code resistance to many drugs (up to 8 anti-biotics)
Why is the R factor said to be promiscuous?
they are conjugated plasmids that can transfer their genetic material to ANY bacteria, not just their own species