Plasmid mobilization from genetically engineered bacteria to members of the indigenous soil microflora in situ

Abstract

For study of gene transfer and expression in a large variety of soil bacteria in situ, a gene-promoter cassette was constructed and inserted into an expression vector that allowed expression and maintenance in a wide host range. The hybrid replicon was transformed into a mobilizer strain that transferred its DNA to other Gram-negative bacteria at very high rates. This genetically engineered microorganism (GEM) was introduced into nonsterile soil microcosms. Plasmid transfer from the introduced GEM to members of the native soil flora was observed in situ.