Bacterial conjugation

Pronunciation
/bak-teer-ee-al kon-juh-TAY-shun/
Category
Microbiology

Definition

The process by which bacteria transfer genetic material, often containing antibiotic resistance genes, from one bacterium to another through direct contact.

Etymology

From Latin 'conjugare', meaning 'to join together'.

Example

The spread of antibiotic resistance genes among bacteria in a hospital environment can be facilitated by bacterial conjugation.

Related Terms