What is bacterial conjugation?

Bacterial conjugation is a process where genetic material is transferred between bacteria through direct contact. This usually occurs between bacterial cells that are connected by a structure known as a pilus, which acts as a bridge for the DNA to pass from one bacterium to another. The transferred DNA often comes in the form of plasmids, which are small, circular pieces of DNA that can replicate independently of the bacterial chromosome.

This mechanism of genetic exchange plays a crucial role in horizontal gene transfer, allowing for the spread of traits such as antibiotic resistance among bacterial populations. In contrast to other forms of genetic exchange like transformation or transduction, which do not involve direct cell-to-cell contact, conjugation requires the physical connection between the donor and recipient bacteria, making it a unique form of genetic material transfer.

By promoting genetic diversity and adaptation, bacterial conjugation significantly influences microbial evolution and the dynamics of bacterial communities. This capability is particularly notable in clinical settings, where it can lead to the rapid dissemination of virulence factors or resistance genes, thus impacting human health.