Here's a breakdown:
* Pilus: A hair-like appendage on the surface of some bacteria.
* Conjugation: The process of genetic material transfer from one bacterium to another through direct contact, facilitated by a pilus.
During conjugation, a pilus from a donor bacterium (containing the transferable DNA) attaches to the recipient bacterium. The pilus then acts as a bridge, allowing the DNA to pass from the donor to the recipient. This transfer can include plasmids (small, circular DNA molecules) or even chromosomal DNA.
This process is a significant way for bacteria to share genetic information, including traits like antibiotic resistance, which can lead to the spread of antibiotic-resistant infections.
