A researcher is studying a specific strain of bacteria. In one of her cultures, she notices that the bacteria are antibiotic-resistant. As there are no genes in the chromosome that could confer antibiotic-resistance in these bacteria, the researcher assumes this is the result of a spontaneous mutation. What is another possible explanation?
A)A gene conferring antibiotic resistance is present on ribosomes.
B)A gene conferring antibiotic resistance is present on peptidoglycans.
C)A gene conferring antibiotic resistance is present on plasmids.
D)A gene conferring antibiotic resistance is present on mitochondria.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Plasmids are small, circular pieces of DNA that are separate from the bacterial chromosome and can often carry genes that confer antibiotic resistance. This is a common mechanism for the spread of antibiotic resistance in bacteria.

A Researcher Is Studying a Specific Strain of Bacteria