plasmid Definition
- 1a genetic structure in a cell that can replicate independently of the chromosomes, typically a small circular DNA strand in the cytoplasm of a bacterium or protozoan
- 2a vector used to transfer genetic material into a cell, especially a bacterial cell
Using plasmid: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "plasmid" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The plasmid is used as a vehicle for transferring genes from one bacterium to another.
Example
The bacteria were genetically modified using a plasmid.
Example
Plasmids are often used in biotechnology to produce large quantities of proteins.
plasmid Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for plasmid
- vector
- extrachromosomal DNA
Phrases with plasmid
a plasmid that can transfer copies of itself to other cells during bacterial conjugation
Example
The antibiotic resistance gene was carried on a conjugative plasmid.
a plasmid used to express a foreign gene in a host cell
Example
The expression plasmid contained a gene for green fluorescent protein.
a plasmid that can replicate in two different host species, often used to transfer genes between eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells
Example
The shuttle plasmid was used to introduce a human gene into a bacterial cell.
Origins of plasmid
from plasm- (as in cytoplasm) + -id (as in chromosome)
Summary: plasmid in Brief
A 'plasmid' [ˈplæzmɪd] is a genetic structure that replicates independently of chromosomes, typically a small circular DNA strand in the cytoplasm of a bacterium or protozoan. It can also refer to a vector used to transfer genetic material into a cell. Plasmids are often used in biotechnology to produce large quantities of proteins, and can be classified into types such as conjugative, expression, and shuttle plasmids.
