Pronunciation: [ˈɛf pˈɪləs] (IPA) 
The spelling of "f pilus" can be a bit tricky, especially for those unfamiliar with the Latin language. The correct spelling is "f pilus" with the "f" being pronounced as [ɛf] in phonetic transcription. The "p" is pronounced as [p] and "ilus" is pronounced as [ɪləs]. In English translation, "f pilus" means "a long, thin hair-like structure" and is commonly used in microbiology to describe the hair-like projections on bacteria cells.
"F pilus" refers to a type of pilus, also known as a conjugative pilus or sex pilus, that is found in certain bacteria. A pilus is a hair-like structure that extends from the surface of a bacterial cell. The F pilus specifically plays a critical role in bacterial conjugation, which is a form of genetic exchange between bacteria.
The F pilus is composed of protein subunits and its formation is under the control of a plasmid known as the F (fertility) factor. The F pilus acts as a bridge, facilitating the transfer of genetic material, specifically the F plasmid, from the donor bacterium to the recipient bacterium during conjugation. This transfer allows for the horizontal transfer of genetic information, such as antibiotic resistance genes, and contributes to the spread of genetic diversity among bacterial populations.
The F pilus is involved in the attachment of the donor and recipient cells, bringing them close together so that the transfer of genetic material can occur. The pilus retracts, bringing the two cells into contact, and then genetic material is transferred through a specialized protein channel known as the conjugation bridge.
Overall, the F pilus is a specialized type of pilus that plays a vital role in facilitating genetic exchange between bacteria through conjugation.
