Question

The uptake of naked DNA by bacteria is called
A. Conjugation
B. Transformation
C. Transfection
D. Transduction

Answer 1

It is a horizontal gene transfer mechanism in which certain bacteria accept foreign genetic material from the environment.

Complete Answer:
Naked DNA refers to DNA that is not associated with lipids, proteins, or any other molecule to help protect it. Naked DNA is the result of release of genetic material into the surrounding environment, such as from bursting cells. Incoming DNA is often incorporated into the bacterial genome after absorption. Transformation is typically a laboratory process, but certain cells are evidently "competent" to pick up naked DNA. Cells may be rendered capable by treating with a range of chemicals. Transformation occurs under normal conditions in some bacteria. Gram-positive bacteria may establish natural skills in very dense communities. This competence is due to the action of pheromones. Although the competence of pheromones is triggered only when cultures are very thick, this is likely to mean that the bacteria only suck up naked DNA from closely related animals.
Conjugation is the conversion of genetic material between two bacterial strains via the conjugation tube.
Transformation is the transition of genetic material from one bacterial strain to another without direct interaction. In this, the naked DNA is taken by the bacteria.
Transfection is a mechanism by which naked DNA is inserted into the eukaryotic cell. Transduction is the transfer of genetic material from one strain to another by viral particles.
The virus infects bacteria and releases viral particles that contain part of the bacterial genetic material that is then passed to the next host bacterium.

Thus, the correct answer is option B. i.e., Transformation.

Note: Naked DNA is a DNA free of histones. This DNA is passed from cell to cell during the process of gene transfer called transfection or transformation. Naked DNA is used for vaccine manufacture and genetic transfers.