Download Rodriguez, Brianna M.

Brianna Rodriguez
11/30/13
Take home #10
Microbial Mutations and their Effects
In class we discussed DNA replication and how our genes sometimes mutate. However,
we really didn’t discuss much on how microbes themselves can mutate. While microbial
mutations are rare, they do occur, about every one to ten million DNA bases. However, we must
take into consideration the fact that microbes do reproduce through binary fission very rapidly.
The average bacterium has about five million DNA bases, so in each new generation, there will
always be at least one mutation in its genetic sequence. According to Microbeworld.org, these
mutations that occur during binary fission, play a huge role in bacterium or microbe’s ability to
adapt and survive in certain conditions (2013). These mutations can occur when the microbe is
exposed to certain environmental conditions such as radiation or chemical/toxin exposure.
Additionally, mutations can occur in certain circumstances such as exposure to extreme cold,
causing pieces of DNA to move around and set into a new place on the microbe’s DNA. This
switch can give the microbe a new genetic trait, for example the ability to tolerate extreme cold,
and allows the microbe to thus adapt and thrive in new environments and living conditions
(Microbeworld.org, 2013). Another cool way that I read on how microbes can mutate, is by
picking up bits of free-floating DNA from the environment. This free-floating DNA comes from
broken down or dying bacteria burst open by a viral infection. DNA in the form of plasmids can
thus be taken up by bacterium, causing a new genetic trait (Microbeworld.org, 2013). These
mutations, while they may seem innocent, can lead to antibiotic resistance, or even to the growth
of archae, bacteria that can grow in extreme conditions. These effects can be potentially
hazardous for humans, especially those in staying and working in healthcare facilities.
Resources: http://www.microbeworld.org/interesting-facts/microbial-mutations