In transformation a prokaryotic cell is altered by the uptake of foreign DNA from its surroundings (Reece 579). This process occurs in nature but can be artificially induced in a laboratory by a method called heat shock. Prokaryotic cells that have been artificially transformed by the foreign DNA can then be calculated for efficiency of transformation. pGLO plasmid was an excellent choice of foreign DNA, due to its ability to alter the phenotype of the prokaryotic cell. Green fluorescent protein (GPF gene) found in the plasmid must be exposed to arabinose, a sugar, in order to activate the GPF gene. If transformation occurred within the prokaryotic cell, the cell will fluoresce green. If mutation occurred within DNA that coded for resistance
