Conjugation (cell-to-cell transfer of DNA)
Definition
Conjugation is direct transfer of DNA from one bacterial cell to another through a structure called pilus.
Analogy
Conjugation is like two people shaking hands, but one person slips a note (the DNA) into the other's hand during the handshake. The recipient now has new information they didn't have before.
Related terms
Pilus: A hair-like appendage found on the surface of many bacteria that is used to transfer DNA during conjugation.
F Plasmid: A piece of DNA in some bacteria that carries genes for sex pili and for the donation of DNA during conjugation.
Hfr Cell: A bacterial cell in which the F plasmid has become integrated into the chromosome.
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