Mechanisms of Gene Transfer in Bacteria: A Review (Review Article)

Author(s): Garba, I. and Khalid, H.U.

Abstract: Gene transfer in bacteria is unidirectional from a donor cell to a recipient cell and the donor usually gives only a small part of its DNA to the recipient. Therefore, complete zygotes are not formed; rather, partial zygotes (merozygotes) are formed. the objective of this review was to critically describe the various mechanism involved in the horizontal transfer of genetic information in bacteria. These mechanisms include transformation, conjugation and transduction these natural processes have been modified in the field of molecular biology so that DNA can be deliberately incorporated into host microbes. Method: The method adopted in this review is broad search of both electronic data bases, hard copies by studying and comparing the information obtained from available current published scientific researchers in peer reviewed journals, books, and conferences etc. Results: it was found that Bacterial genes are usually transferred to members of the same species but occasional transfer to other species can also occur example in members of the genus S almonellae and Escherichia. Understanding the mechanism of transfer of genetic elements in bacteria is important in order to appreciate R. plasmid mediated antibiotic resistance in bacteria. Conclusion; Bacteria can transfer genes from one strain to another by different mechanisms: these natural processes have been modified in the field of molecular biology so that DNA can be deliberately incorporated into host microbes including genes that would normally never be transferred this way.

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