Determination of the length of the V colicinogenic factor and a derivative fertility factor

Plasmid deoxyribonucleic acid from Escherichia coli harboring either the V colicinogenic factor (Col V) or the derivative fertility factor (Fv), (a non-colicin-producing fertility factor derived from Col V) were separated by cesium chloride-ethidium bromide centrifugation and examined by electron microscopy. Results indicate a deletion of 11 mum of deoxyribonucleic acid in the transition from Col V to Fv.