| abstract |
The invention relates to methods and tools for modifying the chromosome of bacteria. The invention especially relates to methods for modifying the genome of bacteria in a targeted manner, for example by inactivating or replacing a target gene. The inventive methods and tools are based on homologous recombination and on the use of a particularly effective selection and counter-selection system derived from thymidine kinase. The invention can be applied to a plurality of species of bacteria, enabling, for example, the analysis of the function of genes, the creation of new metabolic pathways, and/or the screening of gene banks. |