Question

Virus-mediated transfer of host DNA from one cell to another cell is known as:

• A. Transduction
• B. Integration
• C. Transformation
• D. Transcription

Hint:

Transduction is the virus-mediated transfer of genetic material between bacterial cells, often involving bacteriophages.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding transduction. Transduction is a process in which a bacteriophage (virus) transfers genetic material from one bacterial cell to another. This occurs when a phage accidentally packages host DNA instead of viral DNA and injects it into another bacterium. 

Step 2: Types of transduction. 
- Generalized transduction: Any bacterial gene can be transferred. 
- Specialized transduction: Only specific bacterial genes near the phage integration site are transferred. 

Step 3: Why other options are incorrect. 
- (B) Integration: Refers to viral DNA integrating into the host genome, not transferring host DNA. 
- (C) Transformation: Involves uptake of free DNA from the environment by bacteria, not virus-mediated. 
- (D) Transcription: The process of RNA synthesis from DNA, unrelated to gene transfer.