Prescott's Microbiology
Prescott's Microbiology
11th Edition
ISBN: 9781260211887
Author: WILLEY, Sandman, Wood
Publisher: McGraw Hill
Question
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Chapter 15, Problem 1RC
Summary Introduction

To explain: The structure of a bacterial genome and the organization of genetic information in their cells.

Introduction: The entire genetic information of a bacteria is stored in its small genome (130 kbp to 14 Mbp) or genes. These genes are organized into the chromosomes explaining that the entire bacterial genetic information is stored in chromosomes.

Expert Solution & Answer
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Explanation of Solution

The genetic material of bacteria is found suspended in the cytoplasm or the nucleoid (nucleus-like region) due to the absence of a nuclear membrane. The bacterial cell consists of a single circular chromosomal DNA and many copies of plasmids (extra-chromosomal circular DNA). But some bacteria also contain multiple and linear circular chromosomes along with the linear plasmids.

Most of the bacterial genetic information is stored in the circular chromosomal DNA, but a small amount of genetic information is also present in bacterial plasmids. These extra-chromosomal circular DNA molecules carry genes coding for various catabolic enzymes, genetic exchange, and resistance to several antibiotics.

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