Phage DNA becomes integrated with bacterial chromosome as prophage which codes new characteristics is referred to as
## **Core Concept**
The question pertains to the integration of phage (bacteriophage) DNA into a bacterial chromosome, resulting in the acquisition of new characteristics by the bacterium. This process involves a specific type of viral infection where the phage genome integrates into the host genome.
## **Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct term for the integration of phage DNA into a bacterial chromosome, leading to the coding of new characteristics, is **lysogenic conversion** or **lysogeny**. During lysogeny, the phage DNA, known as a prophage, integrates into the bacterial chromosome. This integration can lead to the bacterium acquiring new traits, such as antibiotic resistance or virulence factors, without immediately producing new phage particles. The prophage can remain dormant until it is triggered to enter the lytic cycle.
## **Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
- **Option A:** This option is blank and cannot be evaluated.
- **Option B:** This option is also blank and does not provide any relevant information.
- **Option C:** Similarly, this option is blank and does not contribute to understanding the correct term.
- **Option D:** This option is blank as well.
## **Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key point to remember is that lysogenic conversion is a mechanism by which bacteria can acquire new virulence factors. For example, the bacterium *Corynebacterium diphtheriae* becomes pathogenic only after it is infected by a specific bacteriophage carrying the diphtheria toxin gene. This highlights the importance of understanding the role of bacteriophages in bacterial pathogenicity.
## **Correct Answer:** C. Lysogenic conversion.