Which method is a common way prokaryotes transfer DNA?

Which method is a common way prokaryotes transfer DNA?

• A. Mitosis.
• B. Meiosis.
• C. Apoptosis.
• D. Conjugation.

Answer: (D)

Prokaryotes mainly transfer DNA through conjugation, a direct cell-to-cell transfer that uses a pilus to connect a donor and a recipient. The donor often carries an F factor plasmid that encodes the machinery for forming a sex pilus; DNA is then transferred through this bridge, allowing plasmids or sometimes portions of the donor’s chromosome to move into the recipient. This easy-to-occur exchange helps spread genes like antibiotic resistance among bacterial populations. Mitosis and meiosis are cell division processes found in eukaryotes, not mechanisms of DNA transfer between bacteria. Apoptosis is programmed cell death and does not involve DNA transfer.

Prokaryotes mainly transfer DNA through conjugation, a direct cell-to-cell transfer that uses a pilus to connect a donor and a recipient. The donor often carries an F factor plasmid that encodes the machinery for forming a sex pilus; DNA is then transferred through this bridge, allowing plasmids or sometimes portions of the donor’s chromosome to move into the recipient. This easy-to-occur exchange helps spread genes like antibiotic resistance among bacterial populations.

Mitosis and meiosis are cell division processes found in eukaryotes, not mechanisms of DNA transfer between bacteria. Apoptosis is programmed cell death and does not involve DNA transfer.