In this video - Bacterial Transformation: Natural vs. Artificial Methods Explained - I look at how bacteria can take up DNA from the environment and how we can get bacteria to take up DNA in the lab.
Bacterial transformation is where bacteria take up external DNA, which can lead to genetic changes within the cell. This process can occur naturally or be induced artificially in a laboratory setting.
Natural Transformation
In natural transformation, bacteria acquire DNA from their surroundings, typically from nearby bacteria that have lysed (broken apart). The free-floating DNA can then be integrated into the bacterial chromosome or replace an existing gene, leading to potential new traits or functions. This ability to naturally take up DNA is a trait of "competent" cells, which possess specific genes that encode the machinery necessary for DNA uptake.
Artificial Transformation
In a lab, we can induce transformation using artificial methods. Unlike natural transformation, this process requires deliberate manipulation of the bacteria to make them more likely to accept new DNA. First, the bacteria must be made competent so they can take up the DNA. Techniques such as heat shock, electroporation, or polycations are then used to encourage bacteria to take up the DNA. Each method works differently but ultimately serves the same purpose: introducing new genetic material into bacterial cells, enabling researchers to study gene function, produce recombinant proteins, or create genetically modified organisms.
