MIT researchers have discovered a phenomenon in which genes from one species of bacteria can be transferred to another, completely unrelated species. This process, known as lateral gene transfer, has been observed between Escherichia coli and Prochlorococcus, two very different types of bacteria.
This unexpected finding challenges the traditional view that genes are passed down only vertically through generations. The researchers believe that lateral gene transfer could have a significant impact on microbial evolution and diversity.
The study, led by MIT postdoc Sarah Farhat and Professor Eric Alm, used genomic data to identify instances of lateral gene transfer between E. coli and Prochlorococcus. The researchers found that this transfer of genes occurs frequently and is not limited to just a few specific genes.
According to Farhat, this discovery changes our understanding of how genetic information is shared among bacteria. She explains that lateral gene transfer allows bacteria to acquire new functions and adapt to changing environments more quickly than through traditional vertical gene transfer.
The implications of this research are significant, as it sheds light on the complex interactions between different species of bacteria and how they evolve over time. The researchers hope that further studies on lateral gene transfer will provide insights into the mechanisms that drive microbial diversity and evolution.
Overall, this study highlights the interconnectedness of different species of bacteria and the importance of lateral gene transfer in shaping microbial communities. The researchers at MIT are continuing to explore this phenomenon and its implications for understanding the diversity and evolution of bacteria.
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