Abstract
Transformation is a process of unidirectional transfer of genetic information in which DNA originating from one cell is taken up by another and stably maintained1. Among the actinomycetes, probably the most interesting and important genus of bacteria, there is only one convincing description of transformation by chromosomal DNA2. It has been suggested that the absence of such transformation in streptomycetes may be due to the production of extracellular DNase3. DNA encapsulated in liposomes is resistant to the action of DNases and liposomes can be made to fuse with cells by treatment with polyethylene gycol (PEG)4. Here we describe the fusion of liposomes containing chromosomal DNA with protoplasts of streptomycetes, resulting in the formation of genetically characterized transformants.
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Makins, J., Holt, G. Liposome-mediated transformation of streptomycetes by chromosomal DNA. Nature 293, 671–673 (1981). https://doi.org/10.1038/293671a0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/293671a0
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