Download Chapter 9: Gene Transfer, Genetic Engineering, and Genomics

Chapter 9
Gene Transfer, Genetic Engineering, and
Genomics
Chapter Summary and Essay Questions
This chapter describes how prokaryotes can acquire genes from the environment and take on new
characteristics, a process that no other living creature can perform. It follows the method
prokaryotes use to exchange genes and discusses how viruses can carry genes between bacterial
cells. The section on genetic engineering is significant because it summarizes the biotechnology
that is revolutionizing industrial microbiology today. The last section on genomics presents some
of the most recent information on how the DNA sequences of microbes are being used. When you
have completed the chapter, you will be able to answer the following essay questions:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
Assess the importance of mutation and genetic recombination to bacterial diversity.
Contrast vertical gene transfer and horizontal (lateral) gene transfer in prokaryotes.
Describe the experiments of Griffith that led to the discovery of transformation.
Prepare a list of the sequential events of transformation as they occur in prokaryotes.
Compare the events that accompany the processes of plasmid and chromosomal DNA
transfer via conjugation.
f. Explain the unique place of the virus in the process of bacterial transduction, and compare in
detail generalized transduction and specialized transduction.
g. Identify the decisive pieces of research that permitted scientists to develop the process of
genetic engineering.
h. Describe in detail the process by which a bacterial cell can be re-engineered to produce a
specific foreign protein.
i. Name several products of genetic engineering, and discuss their importance in modern living.
j. Describe how DNA probes and the polymerase chain reaction are used to identify a
specific
gene sequence.
k. Assess the role that microbial DNA sequencing has played in the field of genetics and disease
development, giving several examples.
l. Explain how microbial genomics has affected food production, been applied to
environmental cleanup, improved biosensing, and improved human health.
m. Contrast functional genomics and comparative genomics.
n. Assess the use of metagenomics toward understanding microbial communities.