conjugation The temporary union of unicellular organisms, during which genetic material is transferred between the two cells; a primitive mode of reproduction. In prokaryotes, plasmids transfer copies of bacterial genes from one bacterium to another. Gene transfer as a means of plasmid movement was discovered by Joshua Lederberg and Edward Tatum in 1947. Related categories • MICROBIOLOGY • GENETICS AND HEREDITY • CELL BIOLOGY Also on this site: Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living Encyclopedia of History Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site) |