Horizontal Gene Tansfer

Definition of Horizontal Gene Tansfer:

• The movement of genetic material between unicellular and/or multicellular organisms other than by the ("vertical") transmission of DNA from parent to offspring (reproduction). HGT is an important factor in the evolution of many organisms. Horizontal gene transfer is the primary mechanism for the spread of resistance in bacteria and plays an important role in the evolution of bacteria that can degrade novel compounds such as human-created pesticides and in the evolution, maintenance, and transmission of virulence.