Definition
noun
A DNA sequence or plasmid that confers certain bacteria the ability to produce a sex pilus for conjugation with other bacteria.
Supplement
The F-factor is episomal. It can therefore occur as an independent plasmid. However, it can also integrate into the bacterial genome or chromosome. Hence, bacteria may be classified in relation with the F-factor:
- Hfr bacteria
- F+ bacteria
- F’ bacteria
- F– bacteria
The F factor may also be used to designate a bacterial cell as either a “male” or a “female”. The donor bacteria is ascribed as male whereas the recipient of the genetic material is attributed as female.
Synonym(s):
- F agent
- F genote
- F plasmid
- fertility agent
- fertility factor
- sex factor
