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MCAT Biology Question — Genetic Information

Which term describes exchange of viral and/or bacterial genetic information from one cell to another via a viral bacteriophage vector?

 

A. transformation

B. translocation

C. transduction

D. transcription

Click for Explanation

Exchange of viral and/or bacterial genetic information from one cell to another via a viral bacteriophage vector defines transduction.

 

A. transformation, incorrect, Transformation describes a bacterium acquiring new genetic material from the surrounding environment through the cell membrane.

B. translocation, incorrect, Translocation refers to movement of genetic information to a different chromosomal location on a nonhomologous chromosome.

C. transduction, correct.

D. transcription, incorrect, Transcription describes creation of mRNA from a DNA template.

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