Genetic analysis of mu or mini-mu containing F' pro lac episomes after prophage induction.

We have investigated the fate of different F pro lac episomes carrying a Mu or mini-Mu, after induction of the Mu or mini-Mu prophage, by looking at the frequencies of transfer of the episome and of one chromosomal marker. During the first 10 min after induction the frequency of chromosome mobilization increases while the frequency of episome transfer decreases. This suggests that the F interacts with the chromosome through some kind of Mu mediated process. Later the transfer of both the episome and chromosomal markers is inhibited. Possible reasons for this inhibition are discussed.