Acinetobacter baylyi

Acinetobacter baylyi is a species of bacteria belonging to the genus Acinetobacter. It is a non-pathogenic, gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium that is widely used in genetic research due to its natural competence for DNA uptake and transformation.

Characteristics

Acinetobacter baylyi is known for its ability to take up foreign DNA from its environment, a process known as natural competence. This makes it an excellent model organism for studying horizontal gene transfer and genetic engineering. The bacterium is aerobic, meaning it requires oxygen for growth, and it can be found in various environments, including soil and water.

Genomic Features

The genome of Acinetobacter baylyi has been fully sequenced, revealing a single circular chromosome. The genome size is approximately 3.6 million base pairs, encoding around 3,400 genes. This genetic information provides insights into the metabolic capabilities and adaptability of the bacterium.

Applications in Research

Due to its genetic tractability, Acinetobacter baylyi is used extensively in molecular biology and biotechnology. Researchers utilize this bacterium to study gene function, regulation, and the mechanisms of antibiotic resistance. Its ability to incorporate exogenous DNA makes it a valuable tool for genetic transformation experiments.

Ecological Role

In its natural habitat, Acinetobacter baylyi plays a role in the biodegradation of organic compounds, contributing to nutrient cycling in ecosystems. Its metabolic versatility allows it to degrade a wide range of substrates, making it an important organism in bioremediation efforts.

Also see

• Acinetobacter
• Horizontal gene transfer
• Genetic transformation
• Bioremediation
• Antibiotic resistance