Agrobacterium tumefaciens

Agrobacterium tumefaciens is a type of soil bacteria that can naturally transfer part of its DNA into plants. This process causes the plant to produce growths called tumors or galls. Scientists use this ability to introduce desired genes into plants in agricultural and research settings, effectively modifying plant traits like resistance to pests or improved nutrition. The bacteria’s natural gene transfer mechanism is a valuable tool in genetic engineering, making it central to developing genetically modified crops. Despite its role in plant disease, it’s an important resource for science and agriculture.