Plasmids and ________ have the ability to replicate within bacterial c...
Plasmids and bacteriophages can replicate within bacterial cells without the help of chromosomal DNA. Thus they are self-replicating and autonomous in nature. They have their own replication machinery.
Plasmids and ________ have the ability to replicate within bacterial c...
Plasmids and Bacteriophages are both genetic elements that have the ability to replicate within bacterial cells independent of the control of chromosomal DNA.
1. Plasmids:
Plasmids are small, circular DNA molecules that exist separately from the bacterial chromosome. They are commonly found in bacteria and can carry a variety of genes that provide advantages to the host cell, such as antibiotic resistance or the ability to produce toxins. Plasmids have their own origin of replication, which allows them to replicate independently of the chromosomal DNA. This means that the plasmid DNA can be replicated and passed on to daughter cells during cell division, ensuring the persistence of the plasmid in the bacterial population.
2. Bacteriophages:
Bacteriophages, also known as phages, are viruses that specifically infect bacteria. They consist of a protein coat and a DNA or RNA genome. When a bacteriophage infects a bacterial cell, it injects its genetic material into the host cell. The phage DNA or RNA then uses the host cell's machinery to replicate itself and produce new phage particles. This replication process occurs independently of the bacterial chromosomal DNA and is controlled by the phage's own genetic regulatory mechanisms.
3. Replication Independence:
Both plasmids and bacteriophages have the ability to replicate within bacterial cells independent of the control of chromosomal DNA. This means that they can replicate autonomously, using their own replication machinery and regulatory elements. The replication of plasmids and bacteriophages is not linked to the replication of the bacterial chromosome, allowing them to replicate at their own pace and without interference from the host cell's DNA replication processes.
In summary, plasmids and bacteriophages are genetic elements that can replicate independently within bacterial cells. They have their own replication mechanisms and are not dependent on the control of chromosomal DNA. This ability to replicate autonomously allows plasmids and bacteriophages to persist in bacterial populations and contribute to the genetic diversity and adaptability of bacteria.
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