Horizontal Gene Transfer
Horizontal gene transfer (HGT) is the transmission of genetic material between unrelated organisms. This transfer can be mediated by viruses, bacteria, and other organisms, and can allow species to acquire novel traits and functions. HGT is important in understanding the evolution of species, and can occur in beneficial situations, such as resistance to antibiotics, or detrimental situations, such as the spread of antibiotic resistances. It also plays an important role in the ecology of species and their interactions with each other in their respective environments. HGT is now recognized as an important phenomenon in many areas of biotechnology, including bioengineering, bioremediation, and pharmaceuticals.
← Journal of Genetic Engineering