ABSTRACT
Integrating conjugative elements (ICEs) are bacterial mobile genetic elements that are found integrated in the chromosome of their host and transfer via conjugation. The SXT/R391 family of ICEs is widespread in λ-proteobacteria related to Vibrio cholerae and contributes to the massive dissemination of antibiotic resistance genes. Besides promoting their own transfer to new host strains these ICEs have been shown to catalyze the mobilization of otherwise non-mobilizable genetic elements such as genomic islands and virulence plasmids. In this chapter we present a comprehensive review on the main functions of this family of mobile elements, focusing on the major advancements that have recently been published.
