Comparative Genomic Analyses of Lactic Acid Bacteria

Abstract

Genetic diversity is the sum of the genetic variation between different species and within the same population. The genetic information of an organism is stored in the DNA sequences of chromosomes and organelle genomes. Lactobacillus keeps its traits stable by accurately duplicating its DNA and passing on the genetic information generation by generation. However, many factors can affect the accuracy of DNA replication, including external factors and internal factors, which together lead to different levels of genetic variation. These accumulated genetic variations enrich the genetic diversity. Genetic polymorphism is not only the result of evolution, but also the premise of evolution.