When horizontal gene transfer occurs, an organism can obtain genes that may help
ID: 200604 • Letter: W
Question
When horizontal gene transfer occurs, an organism can obtain genes that may help it to survive and reproduce (increasing its fitness). Which of the following are some potential benefits to Vibrio cholerae bacteria of obtaining genes from their prey?
They may obtain virulence genes, genes that allow them to use new metabolic pathways, and genes that prevent them from accidentally picking up DNA in the future. All of these things are beneficial. They may obtain virulence genes and metabolic genes but are unlikely to benefit in other ways. They may obtain genes that help them to more effectively infect hosts and gain antibiotic resistance while also experiencing reduced competition for nutrients. They may obtain genes that prevent them from accidentally picking up DNA in the future.Explanation / Answer
Option C is correct. Cholera bacteria obtain genes for virulence and antibiotic resistance through horizontal gene transfer. This helps them in infecting the host more easily. They can also kill the protective bacteria in the host and take their place thus reducing competition for nutrients.
It does not prevent them from picking up DNA, therefore option A and D are incorrect.
Option B is incorrect because they clearly gain other benefits such as antibiotic resistance.
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