Genetics of microorganisms

Abstract

Scope and Method of Study: This report has been designed to present the contributions that microorganisms have made to the field of genetics since the early 1940's. Primary emphasis is placed on the fungus Neurospora crassa, the bacteria Escherichia coli, and the bacteriophages emphasizing the T4 strain. Classic experiments involving these organisms are presented in an attempt to further define their role in modern genetic studies.

Findings and Conclusions: The techniques and refinements that countless workers have contributed have made these organisms the most intensely studied organisms on earth outside of man at the present time. The employment of microorganisms has made possible a great refinement and method of experimentation leading ultimately to the study of genetics on a molecular level. Present work has sharply defined the concept of the gene and has led to the predicting of the amino acid sequences on a molecular basis.

Indications are that work with these microorganisms will become even more intense in coming years. For investigations involving the gene-protein relationships, work with these microorganisms has become indispensable.