A large region of the F plasmid (~33 kb)is called the transfer region (tra)and contains about 40 genes necessary for conjugation. The gene traA codes for the protein pilin that is polymerized To form a pilus, using a number of other tra genes. The pilus is a hollow cylinder whose units disassemble once contact is made in order to "reel in" the recipient cell. What other functions of The tra genes are required for transfer? A)DNA unwinding, and prevention of contact with F⁺ cells B)enzymatic DNA replication C)resistance to phage infection D)integration of F genes into the recipient's chromosome E)integration of F genes into the recipient's plasmid

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The tra genes are necessary for conjugation, the process of transferring genetic material from one bacterial cell to another. In addition to the gene for pilin, the transfer region includes genes that encode for proteins involved in DNA unwinding and preventing contact with incompatible cells. Therefore, option A is the best choice as it describes two functions of tra genes that are required for transfer - DNA unwinding and prevention of contact with incompatible cells. Enzymatic DNA replication, resistance to phage infection, and integration of F genes are not functions of the tra genes required for transfer.

A Large Region of the F Plasmid (~33 Kb)is Called