Research Product

Concern over introduction of genetically altered bacteria into the environment has created the need for basic information to intelligently assess the risk versus benefit of deliberate releases of microorganisms into the environment. Three mechanisms of genetic transfer are discussed: conjugation, transduction, and transformation. Conjugation requires direct cell-to-cell interaction. DNA transfer via transduction is mediated by bacteriophage. In transformation, naked DNA is taken up by naturally competent bacteria directly from the surrounding environment. Available studies indicate the DNA transfer in freshwater environment occurs via both conjugation and transduction.