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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between HFR and F+ Strains?

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The main difference between HFR and F+ strains lies in the structure and location of the F plasmid within the bacterial cells:

  • F+ Strains: These bacterial cells possess an F plasmid that is separate from the bacterial chromosome, and it exists independently in the cytoplasm. The F plasmid contains fertility factor coding genes, and bacteria with F plasmids are capable of forming sex pili and transferring plasmids to other bacteria.
  • HFR Strains: These bacterial cells have an F plasmid integrated into their chromosomes, forming recombinant DNA. The F plasmid is no longer separate from the bacterial chromosome but is integrated into it. HFR strains can transfer not only the F plasmid but also a small portion of the bacterial chromosome during conjugation.

In summary, F+ strains have an independent F plasmid in their cytoplasm, while HFR strains have the F plasmid integrated into their bacterial chromosomes.

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  • What is the Difference Between HFR and F+ Strains?
  • Comparative Table: HFR vs F+ Strains

    • Comparative Table: HFR vs F+ Strains

    The main difference between HFR and F+ strains lies in the integration of the F plasmid into the bacterial chromosome. Here is a table comparing the two strains:

    Feature F+ Strains HFR Strains
    F Plasmid Free in the cytoplasm Integrated into the bacterial chromosome
    Fertility Independent of the chromosomal DNA Dependent on the chromosomal DNA
    Gene Transfer Can transfer F plasmid to other bacteria Transfers a small portion of the integrated F plasmid during conjugation
    Bacterial Conjugation Participates in bacterial conjugation Participates in bacterial conjugation, but with a lower frequency of gene transfer

    In summary, F+ strains have an independent F plasmid free in the cytoplasm, while HFR strains have the F plasmid integrated into their bacterial chromosomes.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.