Define the term genetic complementation.
Describe how the term applies to an experiment in which two lysis-defective bacteriophages are able to coinfect a bacterial cell and produce lysis.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Genetic complementation is a phenomenon where two different mutations in the genome of an organism or virus can complement each other when present in the same cell, restoring a normal phenotype. This occurs when the mutations affect different genes or functional regions, allowing the functional product of one gene to compensate for the defect in the other.
2. In the context of bacteriophages, genetic complementation can be studied by coinfecting a bacterial cell with two lysis-defective bacteriophages, each carrying a mutation that prevents them from lysing the host cell independently.
3. To determine if genetic complementation occurs, observe whether the coinfection results in lysis of the bacterial cell. If lysis occurs, it suggests that the two bacteriophages are complementing each other, meaning their mutations affect different genes or functional regions required for lysis.
4. Design the experiment by ensuring that the two bacteriophages are introduced into the same bacterial cell under controlled conditions. Monitor the bacterial culture for signs of lysis, such as clearing of the bacterial lawn or reduction in turbidity.
5. Interpret the results: If lysis is observed, it indicates genetic complementation. If no lysis occurs, it suggests that the mutations are in the same gene or functional region, and complementation is not possible.

Key Concepts

Genetic Complementation

Genetic complementation occurs when two different mutations in a gene are present in the same organism, and the normal function is restored. This phenomenon is often observed in diploid organisms, where one allele can compensate for the defective allele of another. In the context of bacteriophages, it allows for the production of functional proteins necessary for lysis when two defective phages infect the same bacterial cell.

Bacteriophage Coinfection

Bacteriophage coinfection refers to the simultaneous infection of a bacterial cell by two or more bacteriophages. This process can lead to genetic interactions between the phages, such as complementation, where the presence of different defective phages can result in the production of functional viral components. Coinfection is a powerful tool in virology to study genetic interactions and the mechanisms of viral replication.

Lysis in Bacteriophages

Lysis is the process by which a bacteriophage causes the destruction of a bacterial cell, releasing new viral particles. This process typically involves the production of lytic enzymes that break down the bacterial cell wall. In the case of lysis-defective bacteriophages, the inability to lyse the host cell can be overcome through complementation when two different phages infect the same cell, allowing for the production of the necessary lytic components.