Question:

Transfer of DNA from one bacterial cell to another by cell-to-cell contact is known as

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Conjugation = Direct cell-to-cell contact via sex pilus; Transformation = Naked DNA uptake; Transduction = Bacteriophage mediated.
  • Transformation
  • Conjugation
  • Transduction
  • Translocation
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Bacteria exchange genetic information horizontally through three fundamental mechanisms: transformation, conjugation, and transduction.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

Conjugation (discovered by Joshua Lederberg and Edward Tatum in 1946) is the direct transfer of plasmid or chromosomal genetic material from a donor bacterium ($F^+$) to a recipient bacterium ($F^-$) mediated through physical cell-to-cell contact via a specialized sex pilus (conjugation bridge).
Transformation involves uptake of naked environmental DNA, and transduction is mediated by bacteriophages.

Step 3: Final Answer:

Thus, DNA transfer via physical cell contact is called conjugation.
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