Since 2020, aggregated from related topics
Horizontal gene transfer is the process by which genetic material is transferred between different organisms, often between different species. This transfer can occur through various mechanisms such as the uptake of DNA from the environment, viral infection, or direct cell-to-cell contact. Horizontal gene transfer can lead to the spread of beneficial traits such as antibiotic resistance or metabolic capabilities, as well as the exchange of harmful genes that can contribute to the spread of disease. Studying horizontal gene transfer is important for understanding the evolution and adaptation of organisms, as well as for developing strategies to combat the spread of antibiotic resistance and other detrimental genetic traits.