noun
conjugation
The joining of cells to exchange or combine genetic material.
Some bacteria exchange DNA through conjugation when they make direct contact.
Etymology
The Latin root means to yoke together. Biological conjugation preserves the joining image for cells that make contact to exchange or combine genetic material.
More examples
- During conjugation, one bacterium transfers a plasmid to another.
- Paramecia exchange genetic material during conjugation.
- A microscope reveals two cells joined in conjugation.
Forms
conjugation · conjugations
conjugate verb — To join and exchange genetic material.