Question

When are host cells officially said to be 'transformed'?

Options

• When they successfully take in and incorporate foreign DNA

• When they are infected by a bacteriophage

• When they undergo cell division after being cultured

• When they are exposed to foreign DNA in the surrounding medium

Answer 1

Host cells are officially said to be 'transformed' once they successfully take in and incorporate the foreign DNA. This means the DNA has not only entered the cell but has also been integrated or maintained within the host cell's genetic machinery.