Lysogenize meaning

Lysogenize means to incorporate viral DNA into the host's genome.


Lysogenize definitions

Word backwards ezinegosyl
Part of speech The word "lysogenize" is a verb.
Syllabic division ly-so-gen-ize
Plural The plural of lysogenize is lysogenizes.
Total letters 10
Vogais (3) o,e,i
Consonants (6) l,y,s,g,n,z

When a bacteriophage infects a bacterial cell, it can either enter the lytic cycle, causing the immediate destruction of the cell, or the lysogenic cycle, where the phage DNA integrates into the bacterial chromosome. This process of integration is known as lysogeny.

During lysogeny, the phage DNA becomes a prophage and replicates along with the host cell's DNA. This integration allows the phage to remain dormant within the host cell for an extended period without causing harm. The host bacteria continue to multiply and divide with the prophage in its genome.

Benefits of Lysogeny

Lysogeny can provide protection for the host bacterium against other phages. If a phage infects a bacterium already containing a prophage, the prophage can produce enzymes that prevent the new phage from entering the lytic cycle. This phenomenon is known as superinfection immunity.

Induction of the Lytic Cycle

Under certain conditions, such as stress or chemical exposure, the prophage may be triggered to enter the lytic cycle. This process, called induction, results in the activation of the prophage and the production of new phages. The host bacterium is then lysed, releasing the newly formed phages to infect other bacterial cells.

Role in Horizontal Gene Transfer

Lysogeny also plays a crucial role in horizontal gene transfer. When the prophage integrates into the bacterial chromosome, it may carry host genes alongside phage genes. During induction, these genes can be transferred to other bacteria, contributing to genetic diversity and evolutionary processes.

In conclusion, lysogeny is a fascinating phenomenon in microbiology that highlights the complex relationship between bacteriophages and their host bacteria. Through the integration of phage DNA into the bacterial chromosome, lysogeny can provide benefits such as protection against other phages, induction of the lytic cycle, and participation in horizontal gene transfer.


Lysogenize Examples

  1. Scientists aim to lysogenize bacteria in order to study the effects of phage integration.
  2. The goal of the experiment was to lysogenize E. coli and track the transmission of genetic material.
  3. Researchers have successfully lysogenized certain strains of viruses in the lab.
  4. One strategy to combat bacterial infections is to lysogenize bacteriophages to target specific pathogens.
  5. The process of lysogenizing bacteriophages can lead to increased resistance to antibiotics over time.
  6. Some bacteria have evolved mechanisms to prevent lysogenization by phages.
  7. Studying how phages lysogenize bacteria can provide insights into microbial ecology.
  8. There are multiple ways in which viruses can lysogenize host cells, leading to different outcomes.
  9. Lysogenizing phages can provide a selective advantage to bacteria under certain environmental conditions.
  10. Understanding the mechanisms of lysogenization is crucial for developing new approaches to combat bacterial infections.


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  • Updated 13/05/2024 - 11:28:47