Chromosomal Transfer in Mycoplasma generates progeny with genome-wide mosaicism

In mycoplasmas, Chromosomal Transfer (CT) permits concomitant transfer of multiple and dispersed chromosomal fragments. CT generates progeny with genome-wide mosaicism which contributes and accelerates adaptation of mycoplasmas in confrontation with selective bottlenecks. These exchanges of chromosomal genes may contribute to the emergence and diffusion of beneficial traits (antimicrobial resistance, virulence, host specificity…).