Horizontaalvahetuse

Horizontaalvahetuse, also known as horizontal transfer, is a biological process where genetic material is transferred between organisms that are not in a direct ancestor-descendant relationship. This can occur through various mechanisms, including conjugation, transformation, and transduction. Conjugation involves the direct transfer of DNA from one bacterium to another through a physical connection, such as a sex pilus. Transformation occurs when an organism takes up free DNA from its environment, while transduction involves the transfer of DNA via a virus. Horizontal transfer plays a significant role in the evolution and adaptation of microorganisms, allowing them to acquire new traits and resist environmental changes. It is particularly important in the context of antibiotic resistance, as bacteria can exchange resistance genes, making it difficult to control infections. Horizontal transfer is a fundamental process in the diversity and resilience of microbial populations, contributing to the dynamic nature of ecosystems.