Progresses of study on integrative and conjugative elements of bacteria

Abstract:

Integrative and conjugative element (ICE) is a kind of novel mobile genetic elements found in bacteria, which is a chromosomal mobile element and can transfer between bacteria through conjugation. The horizontal gene transfer contributes to the adaptation of microorganisms under special environmental conditions. Because of many ICEs associated with antibiotic resistant genes, the transfer of these genetic elements would speed up the dissemination of antibiotic resistance genes within and between microbial genera. It results in the growing problems of drug resistance, even multi-drug resistance and makes the mechanism of resistance become exceedingly complex. In addition, ICEs are closely related with genomic islands, and intensive research leading to deeper understanding is imperative.