A bacterial strain isolated from a hospital-acquired infection is found to be resistant to multiple antibiotics. Genetic analysis reveals the presence of genes encoding for efflux pumps, enzymes that modify antibiotics, and target site mutations. These resistance genes are most likely transferred between bacteria via which mechanism?
✓ Correct Answer: Option C
Conjugation is the direct transfer of genetic material (like plasmids containing antibiotic resistance genes) between bacterial cells through physical contact (e.g., via a pilus). This is a major mechanism for widespread multi-drug resistance in bacterial populations.