The significance of horizontal gene transfer in the formation of bacterial biofilm

Abstract

Different publication and research papers indicate that horizontal gene transfer is interrelated with the process of biofilm formation. Horizontal transfer is also known as HGT. We know that plasmid is a small extrachromosomal DNA molecule which are usually found in bacteria and other microscopic organisms. And we also know that basic criteria of plasmid are replication and replication is maintained in order to guarantee that the number of copies of plasmid of the host remains secure. The rate of horizontal gene transfer during biofilm formation is higher compared with that of during planktonic stage. Under the influence of microbial genetic elements, horizontal gene transfer enforces bacteria for the enhancement of firm association. This happens fundamentally because plasmids are autonomous replicators that boost their own survival by encouraging bacterial interactions. They frequently also carry genes that improve the physical fitness of their hosts. In addition, contemporary study demonstrates that bacteria can be forced to maintain stable social interactions by the so-called mafia qualities encoded on mobile genetic components. Also, it suggests that horizontal gene transfer eventually strengthens the resemblance between bacteria carrying mobile genetic components from a single origin.