Plasmid

How it is used

Used daily in cloning and protein expression. A typical plasmid has an origin of replication, an antibiotic resistance gene for selection and a site for inserting genes. Researchers grow bacteria to 'prep' plasmid DNA (miniprep, maxiprep) and share plasmids through repositories.

Example sentences

1. The plasmid carries an ampicillin resistance gene, so we grew the bacteria on ampicillin plates.

2. Could you send me two micrograms of the plasmid for my transfection?

Common collocations

• plasmid DNA
• plasmid map
• expression plasmid
• plasmid prep
• transform a plasmid

Related terms

• vectorA DNA molecule, such as a plasmid or a modified virus, used to carry a gene into a cell, where it can be copied or expressed.
• cloneTo make copies of a DNA fragment by inserting it into a vector and growing it in cells; also, to make a genetically identical copy of a cell or organism.
• restriction enzymeA bacterial enzyme that cuts DNA at a specific short sequence, such as GAATTC for EcoRI. It is a basic tool for cutting and joining DNA in cloning.
• transfectionPutting DNA or RNA into animal or human cells in culture, usually with chemical reagents or an electric pulse, so that the cells express it or are changed by it.
• recombinant proteinA protein produced by putting its gene into host cells such as bacteria, yeast or mammalian cells, which then make the protein in large amounts.

More terms: Genetic Engineering and CRISPR

• CRISPR
• genetic engineering
• GMO
• guide RNA
• gene editing
• knockout
• off-target effect