lateral gene transfer

Lateral gene transfer (LGT) is a process where organisms, particularly bacteria, share genetic material directly with each other, not through traditional reproduction. Instead of passing genes from parent to offspring, they can swap or transfer genes across different species or strains. This transfer allows organisms to rapidly acquire new traits, such as antibiotic resistance or new metabolic abilities. LGT plays a significant role in evolution, especially for microorganisms, enabling them to adapt quickly to changing environments. It’s like a shortcut for sharing useful genetic information, contributing to the diversity and resilience of microbial life.