Conjugal Transfer of Genetic Material in Lactococci: A Review

Abstract

The ability to mediate conjugal transfer of DNA is widespread among the lactococci. In the 9 yr since conjugation was first demonstrated in lactococci, a wide variety of phenotypes have been shown to be conjugally transferred. Recently, conjugation was used in constructing lactococcal strains with increased industrial utility. This review will discuss the mechanisms of conjugal transfer in lactococci, the range of conjugally transferred phenotypes, and the practical significance conjugation has in future strain construction strategies. Additionally, the terminology of plasmid conjugative processes will be presented. © 1989, American Dairy Science Association. All rights reserved.