Researchers demonstrate how 'interfering' RNA can block bacterial evolution
Friday, August 31, 2012 - 08:31
in Biology & Nature
(Phys.org)—Bacteria may be simple creatures, but unlike "higher" organisms they have a neat evolutionary trick. When the going gets tough, they can simply pick up and incorporate a loose bit of genetic material from their environment. It's instant evolution, no time-consuming mutations required. This process, known as horizontal gene transfer, is an important reason why nasty bacteria like pneumococci are often able to evade immune system attacks and antibiotic drugs.