Question

F (fertility) factor is used in many bacterial systems for different purposes. Choose the incorrect statement with respect to the F factor.

(a) It was identified in E. coli for catalysing genetic exchange between cells

(b) Cells having F factor are called as female

(c) The F factor is transferred from one cell to another via factors present outside

(d) They are not related to BAC systems

I have been asked this question by my college director while I was bunking the class.

Question is from BAC Vector, M13 and its Derivatives topic in division Other Vector Systems for E of Genetic Engineering

Answer 1

Right answer is (a) It was identified in E. coli for catalysing genetic exchange between cells

Easiest explanation: BAC vectors are based on the F (fertility) factor. They are known for transferring genetic material between cells and they do it by a proteinaceous filament called sex pilus. The cells having F factor are called as male cells.