Question

In the process of transformation, why should E. coli cells be competent?

Answer 1

Bacterial transformation is a natural phenomenon in which bacterial cells take up foreign DNA from the environment. The E. coli cells that take up the foreign DNA needs to be competent which means they must facilitate smooth entry of the foreign DNA. Being competent increases the permeability of the cells for the incoming DNA. The E. coli cells are made competetent by subjecting the cells to calcium chloride treatment and heat shock treatment. This process helps the cells to open their pores and facilitate the entry of the DNA.