Genes responsible for denitrification have a potential to move within and between cells

What is it about?

This study shows that genes encoding functional enzymes for denitrification (i.e., reduction of nitrate or nitrite to gaseous nitrogen) are located on a mobile genetic element, which can be transferred within and between genomes (= horizontal gene transfer).

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Why is it important?

The evolutionary history of denitrification is complex. While the occurrence of horizontal gene transfer has been suggested for denitrification genes, evidence for that has not been clearly presented thus far. This finding will significantly advance our scientific knowledge regarding the ecology and evolution of denitrification.