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The reversible transition of certain genes in Staphylococcus aureus between the integrated and the extra-chromosomal state

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  14 April 2009

M. H. Richmond  and
Joan Johnston
M. H. Richmond
Affiliation:
Department of Bacteriology, Bristol University Medical School, University Walk, Bristol, BS8 1TD
Joan Johnston
Affiliation:
Department of Bacteriology, Bristol University Medical School, University Walk, Bristol, BS8 1TD
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It is already well established in Escherichia coli that certain genes, or groups of genes, can behave as episomes—that is, they can undergo a free transition between the fully extrachromosomal state and one in which they are integrated in the bacterial chromosome (Jacob & Wollman, 1961; Broda, Beckwith & Scaife, 1964). Although this type of behaviour has been detected commonly among members of the enteric bacteria, it has never hitherto been demonstrated clearly in a Gram-positive species. This communication shows that a reversible transition of certain genes between the extrachromosomal and the integrated state can occur in some strains of Staphylococcus aureus at least.

Type
Research Article
Information
Genetics Research , Volume 13 , Issue 3 , June 1969 , pp. 267 - 274
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1969

References

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