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Chapter 7: Problem 13

Describe the steps that occur during bacterial transformation. What is a competent cell? What factors may determine whether a cell will be competent?

Short Answer

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Bacterial transformation involves preparation of competent cells, DNA uptake, and incorporation into the host genome. A competent cell is a bacterial or yeast cell that is more likely to accept and incorporate foreign DNA during transformation. Factors determining competency may include bacterial species, stage of growth, the method of competency induction, and temperature at which procedure is performed.

Step by step solution

01

Process of Bacterial Transformation

The process of bacterial transformation involves several steps: \n\n1. Preparation of the competent cells: Bacteria cells are made 'competent' or more permeable to plasmid DNA, usually by treatment with calcium chloride.\n\n2. DNA Uptake: The competent cells are mixed with plasmid DNA. A short heat shock is applied which induces the cells to take up the foreign DNA.\n\n3. Incorporation into the host genome: Once inside, the plasmid DNA aligns itself with the bacterial DNA and incorporates itself into the genome of the bacteria. This allows the bacteria to gain new genetic information.
02

Definition of competent cell

A competent cell, in the context of genetics, is a bacterial or yeast cell that is more likely to accept and incorporate foreign DNA during the process of transformation. This ability to take up foreign DNA is crucial in biotechnology where genetic engineering is routinely performed to modify organisms.
03

Factors determining competency

Several factors can determine whether a cell will be competent or not. Some of these may include bacterial species, stage of growth, the method of competency induction (chemical or electro-), and temperature at which procedure is performed.

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