Which term describes the spread of genes between unrelated species, including resistance genes?

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Multiple Choice

Which term describes the spread of genes between unrelated species, including resistance genes?

Explanation:
Spreading genes between unrelated species, including resistance genes, is described by horizontal gene transfer. This term captures genetic exchange that occurs across species boundaries rather than from parent to offspring. Within this broad process, DNA can move by uptake of free DNA from the environment (transformation), by a bacteriophage ferrying DNA between cells (transduction), or by direct transfer through a pilus from one cell to another (conjugation). These are the specific pathways that enable the broader phenomenon of horizontal gene transfer.

Spreading genes between unrelated species, including resistance genes, is described by horizontal gene transfer. This term captures genetic exchange that occurs across species boundaries rather than from parent to offspring. Within this broad process, DNA can move by uptake of free DNA from the environment (transformation), by a bacteriophage ferrying DNA between cells (transduction), or by direct transfer through a pilus from one cell to another (conjugation). These are the specific pathways that enable the broader phenomenon of horizontal gene transfer.

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