Bacterial genetics: In the context of horizontal gene transfer, what does transformation mean?

Introduction / Context:
Bacteria exchange genetic material via transformation, transduction, and conjugation. Distinguishing these mechanisms is essential for understanding antibiotic resistance spread and molecular cloning methods.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Transformation involves uptake of free, naked DNA.
• Conjugation requires a pilus and F factor.
• Transduction is bacteriophage-mediated transfer.

Concept / Approach:
Competent bacteria can bind and internalize environmental DNA, integrating it by recombination or maintaining it as a plasmid. This can confer new traits, such as antibiotic resistance or metabolic capabilities, without direct cell-to-cell contact.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Map each HGT term to its hallmark.Transformation = uptake from environment; Conjugation = pilus/F factor; Transduction = phage.Select the definition that matches transformation.

Verification / Alternative check:
Classic experiments (e.g., Griffith, Avery–MacLeod–McCarty) showed that DNA from dead bacteria could transform living bacteria to a new phenotype.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Pilus formation (A), F factor (C), F+/F− (D) describe conjugation, not transformation.

Common Pitfalls:
Conflating natural competence with laboratory competence; calcium chloride or electroporation can artificially induce competence in the lab.

Final Answer:
acquiring DNA from the bacterial cell environment