Chapter 17, Problem 1TYK

Summary Introduction

Introduction:

Bacterial recombination is a type of genetic recombination in that bacterial DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is transferred from one bacterial cell (donor) to another bacterium (recipient) to generate genetic variability. This process takes place mainly in three ways, which are transformation, transduction, and conjugation.

Answer to Problem 1TYK

Correct answer:

The differences in the genes of bacteria can be studied by measuring the passage of genes between cells during conjugation, transduction, and transformation.

Explanation of Solution

Justification/explanation for the correct answer:

Option (e) states that the differences in genes of bacteria can be measured by the flow of genes between cells during conjugation, transduction, and transformation. The transfer of genetic information between individuals in recombination can be measured from the existence of recombinants produced from the genetic recombination. The time and order of the genes can be noted down that were transferred to the recombinants. Then, the genes can be mapped and assign in their particular positions. This can be done majorly in conjugation. Hence, option (e) is correct.

Explanation for the incorrect answer:

Option (a) states that the bacteria cannot be grown on minimal media as the media lacks essential nutrients while studying the differences in bacterial genes. The differences in the genes of the bacteria can also be studied by growing bacteria on a minimal medium for screening recombinants or conjugants. The recombinants can be differentiated from the nonrecombinants by growing them on different media, which favors them. So, it is an incorrect option.

Option (b) states that the bacterial clone, which is a group of cells from different bacteria of varying genetic make-up can be used to study the differences in bacterial genes. The passage of genes between the cells can be studied through different recombination processes. The genes in recombinants can be studied using bacterial clone, which are genetically identical cells of the same bacteria. So, it is an incorrect option.

Option (c) states that the bacterial diploid is used because of their ability to grow on minimal medium, for studying the differences in genes. Bacteria becomes partial diploid (merozygote) when recombination takes place. These are then grown on minimal media for differentiating them from nonrecombinants and to study the differences in the genes of bacteria. So, it is an incorrect option.

Option (d) states that only one genetic trait can be studied in a single recombinant event. The recipient cell or the recombinant can be tested for the presence of multiple genetic traits (multiple donor alleles) in a single recombinant event. So, it is an incorrect option.

Hence, options (a), (b), (c), and (d) are incorrect.

Conclusion

Therefore, it can be concluded that the differences in the genes of bacteria can be studied by measuring the passage of genes between the cells during conjugation, transduction, and transformation with the help of horizontal gene transfer determinations.