[Campbell Biology P.630] Which statement best differentiates the genetic outcome of conjugat... | Practice Question
Which statement best differentiates the genetic outcome of conjugation involving an F+ cell compared to an Hfr cell?
A: Conjugation with an F+ cell primarily results in the recipient becoming F+, while Hfr conjugation always transfers the entire F factor along with chromosomal DNA.
B: F+ cell conjugation exclusively transfers chromosomal genes, whereas Hfr cell conjugation transfers only the F plasmid.
C: Conjugation with an F+ cell typically results in the recipient F- cell becoming F+ through the transfer of the F plasmid, while Hfr cell conjugation commonly leads to the transfer of donor chromosomal genes, potentially creating a recombinant recipient.
D: Both F+ and Hfr cells equally contribute to extensive chromosomal DNA transfer and subsequent recombination in the recipient.
Explanation
The text explains that an F+ cell conjugates by transferring a copy of the F plasmid to an F- cell, converting it to F+. In contrast, an Hfr cell has the F factor integrated into its chromosome. During conjugation, the integrated F factor initiates transfer of chromosomal DNA, potentially along with a portion of the F factor, allowing for homologous recombination in the recipient F- cell. This leads to the recipient acquiring donor chromosomal genes, making it a recombinant bacterium, but not necessarily F+.