Concepts of horizontal gene transfer at the turn of the 20th and 21st centuries
摘要
Horizontal gene transfer (HGT) is a fundamental process in the evolution of prokaryotic and, potentially, eukaryotic organisms. It facilitates the exchange of genetic material across diverse species and groups, bypassing traditional inheritance pathways. Research conducted at the turn of the 20th and 21st centuries has demonstrated that HGT not only drives the diversification and adaptation of prokaryotes but also plays a significant role in the evolution of complex eukaryotic life forms. This mini-review explores the various mechanisms of HGT, including transformation, transduction, and conjugation in prokaryotes, as well as specific instances of HGT in eukaryotes. It also discusses modern methods for detecting HGT, such as molecular approaches based on genome sequencing and the analysis of evolutionary history. The review highlights the structure of HGT networks and the role of microbial hubs in facilitating gene transfer. Additionally, it addresses potential applications of HGT in biotechnology and raises important questions regarding its potential risks to human health. This work emphasizes the need for further research into HGT mechanisms and their impact on genome evolution, including the opportunities and constraints they impose on the adaptation of organisms to environmental changes.