Methods for determining transfer of mobile genetic elements in Clostridium difficile

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Abstract

Horizontal gene transfer by mobile genetic elements plays an important role in the evolution of bacteria, allowing them to rapidly acquire new traits, including antibiotic resistance. Mobile genetic elements such as conjugative and mobilizable transposons make up a considerable part of the C. difficile genome. While sequence analysis has identified a large number of these elements, experimental analysis is required to demonstrate mobility and function. This chapter describes the experimental methods utilized for determining function and transfer of mobile genetic elements in C. difficile including detection of the circular transfer intermediate and the analysis and confirmation of mobile genetic element transfer to recipient cells.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationMethods in Molecular Biology
EditorsAdam P. Roberts, Peter Mullany
Place of PublicationNew York NY USA
PublisherHumana Press
Chapter15
Pages199-213
Number of pages15
Volume1476
Edition2nd
ISBN (Electronic)9781493963614
ISBN (Print)9781493963591
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2016

Publication series

NameMethods in Molecular Biology
Volume1476
ISSN (Print)10643745

Keywords

  • Antibiotic resistance
  • Clostridium difficile
  • Conjugation
  • Horizontal transfer
  • Mating
  • Mobilizable element
  • Mobilization
  • Transposon

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