The journey of bacterial genes

Analysis of the dynamics of transposons that encode resistance to different antibiotics shows that the movement of genes under positive selection from the chromosome to mobile genetic elements such as plasmids can be beneficial in bacteria. Once integrated into plasmids, these genes can spread by horizontal gene transfer.

Automated summary

Analysis indicates that the movement of antibiotic resistance genes from chromosomes to mobile genetic elements, such as plasmids, under positive selection, is beneficial for bacteria. Once integrated into plasmids, these genes can be horizontally transferred, enabling their spread.