Agrobacterium
Agrobacterium
Agrobacterium (/ˌæɡroʊbækˈtɪəriəm/) is a genus of Gram-negative bacteria that are capable of causing diseases in plants. Agrobacterium is well known for its ability to transfer DNA between itself and plants, and for this reason it has become an important tool for genetic engineering.
Etymology
The name Agrobacterium comes from the Greek agros, meaning field, and bacterium, meaning a small rod. This is in reference to the fact that these bacteria are often found in agricultural settings, causing diseases in crops.
Characteristics
Agrobacterium species are rod-shaped and are capable of living in a variety of environments, including soil, water, and the human body. They are aerobic bacteria, meaning they require oxygen to survive. They are also motile, meaning they can move on their own.
Agrobacterium species are best known for their ability to cause plant diseases, such as crown gall disease and hairy root disease. They do this by transferring a piece of their own DNA into the plant's cells, which then causes the plant to produce tumors or other growths.
Role in Genetic Engineering
Because of their ability to transfer DNA to plants, Agrobacterium species have become important tools in genetic engineering. Scientists can insert desired genes into the bacteria, which can then transfer those genes to plants. This has been used to create genetically modified organisms (GMOs), such as crops that are resistant to pests or diseases.
Related Terms
- Gram-negative bacteria
- DNA
- Genetic engineering
- Aerobic bacteria
- Motile
- Plant diseases
- Crown gall disease
- Hairy root disease
- Genetically modified organisms (GMOs)
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Agrobacterium
- Wikipedia's article - Agrobacterium
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