Which of the following statements most accurately describes transformation in bacteria?
A)Transformation is the creation of a strand of DNA from an RNA molecule.
B)Transformation is the creation of a strand of RNA from a DNA molecule.
C)Transformation is the infection of cells by a phage DNA molecule.
D)Transformation is the assimilation of external DNA into a cell.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Transformation in bacteria refers to the uptake and integration of external DNA into the bacterial cell. This process was first observed by Frederick Griffith in 1928, who found that dead bacteria could transfer genetic material to live bacteria, thereby transforming their phenotype. Transformation is one of the three mechanisms by which bacteria can exchange genetic material, along with conjugation (direct cell-to-cell transfer) and transduction (transfer via bacteriophage).

Which of the Following Statements Most Accurately Describes Transformation in Bacteria