Natural genetic transformation: prevalence, mechanisms and function

Studies show that gene acquisition through natural transformation has contributed significantly to the adaptation and ecological diversification of several bacterial species. Relatively little is still known, however, about the prevalence and phylogenetic distribution of organisms possessing this pr...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Research in microbiology 2007-12, Vol.158 (10), p.767-778
Main Authors: Johnsborg, Ola, Eldholm, Vegard, Håvarstein, Leiv Sigve
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Bacteria - genetics
Competence regulation
DNA uptake apparatus
DNA, Bacterial - genetics
DNA, Bacterial - physiology
Gene Transfer, Horizontal
Transformation, Bacterial
Type IV pili
Type IV secretion system
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Summary:Studies show that gene acquisition through natural transformation has contributed significantly to the adaptation and ecological diversification of several bacterial species. Relatively little is still known, however, about the prevalence and phylogenetic distribution of organisms possessing this property. Thus, whether natural transformation only benefits a limited number of species or has a large impact on lateral gene flow in nature remains a matter of speculation. Here we will review the most recent advances in our understanding of the phenomenon and discuss its possible biological functions.
ISSN:0923-2508
1769-7123
DOI:10.1016/j.resmic.2007.09.004