Scientists working at the University of California conducted an important study on the beneficial bacteria found in the human intestines. As a result of the examinations, it was revealed that the bacteria “make love” with each other for vitamin B12. Defining this as direct sex, experts have determined that bacteria transfer genes to each other to receive vitamin B12 in this way.
How important B12 is for our body has already been proven years ago. Many types of cells in the body cannot function fully without this vitamin. This brings with it many health problems. The fact that B12 is so important seems to have led to both competition and relationships, even within the body. The fact that bacteria in the intestines have sex for B12 is also evidence of this relationship.
“Jumping genes” behind bacterial sex
In the statements made by Patrick Degnan, the number one name of the research, it was explained how bacteria have sex. According to Degnan, in this process, the genes that enable the intake of B12 are transferred from bacteria to bacteria in a tube. In this way, a relationship is formed between the two bacteria, and as a result, both bacteria have access to the genes necessary for B12. Explaining that this is also known as a jumping gene, the scientist states that jumping genes were used in previous studies only for the survival of bacteria after antibiotic treatments. In other words, sex between bacteria existed in earlier times. On the other hand; Some bacteria can transfer genes, while others cannot. You can compare this to sexual intercourse between men and women.
Patrick Degnan said the research is very important because these results mean that lovemaking isn’t just about antibiotics, it can be used for anything else that keeps beneficial bacteria alive. The scientist, who published their work in the journal Cell Reports, seems to open the door to brand new discoveries about the human body.
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