Fertility factor

Definition

The fertility factor (F factor) is a plasmid in bacteria that enables the transfer of genetic material through conjugation. It plays a crucial role in genetic diversity among prokaryotes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The F factor contains genes necessary for the formation of sex pili, which facilitate the transfer of DNA between bacterial cells.
2. Bacteria possessing the F factor are termed F+ cells, while those lacking it are termed F- cells.
3. During conjugation, an F+ cell can transfer a copy of its F factor to an F- cell, converting it into an F+ cell.
4. The F factor can integrate into the bacterial chromosome, forming an Hfr (high-frequency recombination) strain, which can transfer chromosomal genes at high frequency during conjugation.
5. Conjugation involving the F factor contributes to antibiotic resistance spread by allowing horizontal gene transfer.

Review Questions

• What is the main function of the fertility factor in bacteria?
• How does the presence of the fertility factor influence bacterial conjugation?
• What distinguishes an Hfr strain from a regular F+ strain?

Related terms

Plasmid: A small, circular piece of DNA that replicates independently from the bacterial chromosome.

Conjugation: A process by which one bacterium transfers genetic material to another through direct contact.

Horizontal Gene Transfer: The movement of genetic material between organisms other than by vertical transmission (from parent to offspring).