Use of Vi Phage Lysates in Genetic Transfer

Abstract

Summary

Lysates prepared by the action of specific Vi phage E₁ on S. typhosa strain Ty2 possess the ability to transfer (transduce) single hereditary traits to other Vi strains of S. typhosa. Fermentative ability and drug resistance have been transferred to strains lacking these factors. These experiments have been repeated using Vi phage type K with the same results. The data obtained showed considerable similarity to the findings of Zinder and Lederberg with the advantage that induction of lysogenicity is not a necessary factor in the initial preparation of active filtrates. The practical and genetic implications of this system and further avenues of analysis have been discussed.