Bacterial Transformation - Term Paper Example

To this end, transformation entails the process in which DNA fragments are taken up by bacteria. Evidently, many contemporary scientists have discovered a variety of genetic modifications that invent bacterial strains which are more susceptible to transformation. Furthermore, they assist in maintaining the plasmid devoid of rearrangement and realignment of of the plasmid DNA. In addition, discoveries in contemporary treatments catalyze the efficiency of bacterial transformation. Consequently, they become highly susceptible to either electrical or chemical based transformation.

This hence results to ‘competent cells.’ The major application for bacterial transformation includes gene therapy whereby defective cells are replaced with functional copies. Furthermore, it can be applied in the coding of genes for traits such as pest resistance or disease that may be transformed into plants. Furthermore, transformation of bacteria can occur with a gene for human hormone like insulin in order to stimulate production in mass quantities. Evidently, upon the occurrence of transformation, a plasmid is often transferred.

To this end, a plasmid refers to a minute, circular DNA that occurs naturally in most bacteria. Furthermore, the plasmid occurs independently from the chromosomal DNA of the bacterium. In addition, it contains genes which are not normally evident in the bacterium. It is important to note that the extra genes at times supply a growth advantage for the bacteria. This can be through giving enzymes such as amylase and extra gene which breaks down beta lactamase or starches and eventually leads to a breakdown of antibiotic ampicillin.

To this end, the growth of bacteria is evident even in places outside their natural setting. In the field of medicine, the ability naturally competent bacteria in acquiring plasmids that possess resistant antibiotic genes is deemed as critical. This has immensely influenced the development of new