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Updated: Feb 6, 2026

Methodology for the Study of Horizontal Gene Transfer in Staphylococcus aureus
Published on: March 10, 2017
Small extracellular particles with big potential for horizontal gene transfer: membrane vesicles and gene transfer
M P Grüll1, M E Mulligan2, A S Lang1
1Departments of Biology.
Abstract:
Bacteria are known to release different types of particles that serve various purposes such as the processing of metabolites, communication, and the transfer of genetic material. One of the most interesting aspects of the production of such particles is the biogenesis and trafficking of complex particles that can carry DNA, RNA, proteins or toxins into the surrounding environment to aid in bacterial survival or lead to gene transfer. Two important bacterial extracellular complexes are membrane vesicles and gene transfer agents. In this review, we will discuss the production, contents and functions of these two types of particles as related to their abilities to facilitate horizontal gene transfer.
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