Which of the Following Methods Can Be Used to Create

Question

Which of the following methods can be used to create competent bacterial cells?
A)Treating the cells chemically
B)Exposing cells to a strong electric field
C)Making the cell membrane more permeable to DNA
D)Allowing the culture to enter stationary phase growth
E)A,B,and C only

Accepted Answer

A, B, and C are all methods of creating competent bacterial cells. Treating cells chemically can weaken the cell wall and allow for easier uptake of DNA. Exposing cells to a strong electric field (electroporation) can create small holes in the cell membrane, allowing DNA to enter. Making the cell membrane more permeable to DNA can be achieved by treating cells with certain chemicals, such as calcium chloride. Allowing the culture to enter stationary phase growth can actually decrease the competence of the cells, as they are less actively dividing and may have thicker cell walls.