Question

which among a-e is false?
a. recombination: can be a part of all four horizontal
gene transfer mechanisms
b. competence: relates to conjugation
c. hfr cell: f factor integrated into the chromosome
d. f - cell: typically the product of an hfr x f - mating
e. vertical gene transfer: occurs by binary fission in
bacteria
f. none of a - e are false, all are true

Explanation:

• Option A: Recombination is indeed a part of all four horizontal gene transfer mechanisms (conjugation, transformation, transduction, and horizontal gene transfer).
• Option B: Competence relates to transformation, not conjugation. In transformation, a cell can take up free DNA from the environment when it is in a competent state.
• Option C: In an Hfr cell, the F factor is integrated into the chromosome.
• Option D: An F - cell is the recipient in an Hfr x F - mating.
• Option E: Vertical gene transfer occurs by binary fission in bacteria, which is a different process from horizontal gene transfer.

Answer:

B. Competence: relates to conjugation