Genetic transfer through conjugation (IMAGE) Chalmers University of Technology Caption Depiction of plasmid transfer between a donor cell and a recipient cell. First, proteins such as relaxase are expressed. The proteins then bind to the origin of transfer region (oriT) of the DNA in the transferring plasmid, and initiate transfer. Finally, the plasmid is transferred through a temporary connection between the cells (pilus) into the recipient cell. Credit Jan Zrimec/Chalmers University of Technology Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.