ISSN:
1420-9071
Keywords:
Genetics
;
ecology
;
DNA-transfer
;
conjugation
;
transformation
;
transduction
;
transposons
;
dormant cells
;
epilithon
;
microbial colonisation
;
symbiosis
;
virus resistance
;
biosafety
;
release of genes
;
insults to humanity
;
evolution
;
biodiversity
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
,
Medicine
Notes:
Abstract Genetic ecology is the extension of our modern knowledge in molecular genetics to studies of viability, gene expression and gene movements in natural environments like soils, aquifers and digestive tracts. In such milieux, the horizontal transfer of plasmid-borne genes between phylogenetically distant species has already been found to be much more frequent than had been expected from laboratory experience. For the study of exchanges involving chromosomally-located genes, more has to be learned about the behaviour of transposons in such environments. The results expected from studies in genetic ecology are relevant for considerations of evolution, biodiversity and biosafety. The role of this new field of research in restoring popular confidence in science and in its biotechnological applications is stressed.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF01920741
