Factors affecting the penetration of deoxyribonucleic acid into Bacillus subtilis

A study of the membrane phenomena in Bacillus subtilis has presented experimental evidence related to the part played by the cytoplasmic membrane and cell wall in the passage of transforming deoxyribonucleic acid into competent and noncompetent cells. Transformation in Bacillus subtilis was found to be significantly increased in the presence of lactose, sucrose, and maltose. It was further noted that electrical stimulation increased the frequency of transformation much as did the disaccharides. On the other hand, genetic transformation of the "protoplast" of Bacillus subtilis could not be demonstrated. These data are discussed in relation to the competent state.