Why are bacteria natural biotechnologists?
2007-03-14 13:31:45 · 3 answers · asked by Smiley :D 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Biology
um not sure but maybe cuz they contain restricition enzymes that can cut up their DNA
2007-03-14 13:36:01 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
indian chic's right. Bacteria have their own restriction enzymes that slice up DNA. So if a virus tries to inject some DNA into the bacteria, the bacteria simply destroys the info. Humans have not yet figured out how to stop viruses as effectively as the bacteria can.
"think it's because bacteria can and do pick up DNA from their environment in a process called transformation"
No. They VERY VERY VERY rarely do pick up the DNA, in shape of plasmids. Even after making the cell membrane more permeable by hardening and depolarizing it. Here's how rare it is. In my biology class, we transform bacteria. In a total of 5 years worth of biology classes, there has only been one success. And a small one at that.
2007-03-14 13:42:03 · answer #2 · answered by doctorevil64 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think it's because bacteria can and do pick up DNA from their environment in a process called transformation. An interesting habit, to say the least.
2007-03-14 13:36:03 · answer #3 · answered by ecolink 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋