Question

Bacterial plasmid genes of non-chromosomal origin are associated with

• A. providing resistance against antibacterial agents
• B. the degradation of toxic materials
• C. the production of certain toxins
• D. the transfer of genetic material from one cell to another cell

Hint:

R-plasmids = antibiotic resistance; F-plasmids = conjugation; toxin genes = less common.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A, B, C, D

Step 1: Understand plasmids.
Plasmids are extrachromosomal, circular DNA molecules in bacteria. They frequently carry genes that provide a selective advantage to the host cell.
Step 2: Identify the key function.
The most common genes carried on plasmids are R-plasmids, which provide resistance to antibiotics. These genes help bacteria survive antibacterial agents by neutralizing or pumping out drugs.
Step 3: Evaluate options.
(B) and (C) may occur but are not the primary or defining features of plasmids. (D) refers to conjugation, facilitated by F-plasmids, but resistance genes are the most common association.
Step 4: Conclusion.
Thus, plasmid genes are best associated with antibiotic resistance.