Figure 4. Conjugation efficiency correlates with tra gene expression.
Expression of the transfer (tra) gene family broadly correlates with conjugation efficiency ((cells/ml)−1 h−1) across five unique plasmids, each in the same MG1655 E. coli host. IncN/F, IncF/I, IncF/Col, IncB/O/K/Z, and IncN plasmids were chosen for diversity in Inc groups, conjugation efficiency, and growth effects across nutrient environments. Average transcripts per million (TPM) and η for both M9 (blue) and TB (red) media are shown from three biological replicates. Gene and gene function are indicated in the upper left. Correlation coefficients are calculated for log values as displayed.