Genetic Recombination
Recombination is crucial to this process because it allows genes to be reassorted into diverse combinations. Genetic recombination is the process of combining genetic components from two different origins into a single unit. In prokaryotes, genetic recombination takes place by the unilateral transfer of deoxyribonucleic acid. It includes transduction, transformation, and conjugation. The genetic exchange occurring between homologous deoxyribonucleic acid sequences (DNA) from two different sources is termed general recombination. For this to happen, an identical sequence of the two recombining molecules is required. The process of genetic exchange which occurs in eukaryotes during sexual reproduction such as meiosis is an example of this type of genetic recombination.
Microbial Genetics
Genes are the functional units of heredity. They transfer characteristic information from parents to the offspring.
The linear dsDNA genome of λ binds on the LamB receptor of E. Coli and conducts a normal lysogenic cycle. Exposure to stress will cause the excision of λ prophage from the E. Coli genome. The excised λ genome is then replicated, packaged, and released from the cell as mature λ phage particles and ready to infect other bacterial cells. Among λ phage particles,
the transducing phage mediates a specific type of recombination. Understand this scenario and answer the following questions.
1. What are the basic requirements for the insertion of λ into the E. Coli genome?
2. What special features are found in the λ insertion site?
3. What type of recombination occurs with λ insertion in the E. Coli genome?
4. How you will differentiate λ transducing phage from normal λ phage?
5. What exclusive mechanism λ phage utilizes for recombination?
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