Understanding Transduction in Bacteria
Transduction is a process by which genetic material is transferred from one bacterium to another through the action of a virus, specifically bacteriophages. This mechanism plays a crucial role in the horizontal gene transfer among bacteria.
Role of Bacteriophages
- Bacteriophages, or phages, are viruses that infect bacteria.
- During the transduction process, a phage can inadvertently pick up a piece of bacterial DNA during its replication cycle and transfer it to another bacterial cell.
- This transfer can lead to genetic variation and the acquisition of new traits, such as antibiotic resistance.
Types of Transduction
- Generalized Transduction: In this type, any bacterial DNA can be transferred. It occurs when a phage mistakenly incorporates bacterial DNA into its capsid during the lytic cycle.
- Specialized Transduction: This occurs when a phage integrates its own DNA into a specific site on the bacterial chromosome and can carry adjacent bacterial genes during the lysogenic cycle.
Importance of Transduction
- Transduction contributes significantly to genetic diversity in bacterial populations.
- It allows for the rapid spread of advantageous traits, enhancing survival and adaptability.
Conclusion
In summary, the correct answer to the question of what carries out transduction in bacteria is option A: Bacteriophages. This process is essential for understanding bacterial evolution and the spread of traits such as antibiotic resistance.