What does transformation involve in bacteria?

Transformation in bacteria involves multiple steps, starting with the preparation of competent cells. In natural transformation, competence is regulated by bacterial genes and environmental cues. For artificial transformation, cells are chemically treated or exposed to an electric field. DNA is then introduced to the prepared cells, followed by a process to stabilize the bacterial membrane. The DNA either integrates into the bacterial chromosome via homologous recombination or exists as an independent plasmid, ready for expression.