Plasmids Notes: Definitions & Explanations PDF | Download eBooks

Study Plasmids lecture notes PDF with biology definitions and explanation to study What are Plasmids?. Study plasmids explanation with biology terms to review biology course for online degree programs.

Plasmids Notes:

A plasmid is a small, circular, double-stranded DNA molecule that is distinct from a cell's chromosomal DNA. Plasmids naturally exist in bacterial cells, and they also occur in some eukaryotes. Often, the genes carried in plasmids provide bacteria with genetic advantages, such as antibiotic resistance. Organelles like mitochondria and chloroplasts also have their DNA in circular and plasmid form.

Plasmids Notes:

A plasmid is a small DNA molecule within a cell that is physically separated from chromosomal DNA and can replicate independently. They are most commonly found as small circular, double-stranded DNA molecules in bacteria, they are sometimes present in archaea and eukaryotic organisms. In eukarya, plasmids are generally found in the plastids like mitochondria and chloroplasts. In nature, plasmids often carry genes that benefit the survival of the organism, such as by providing antibiotic resistance. Plasmids usually are very small and contain only additional genes that may be useful in certain situations or conditions. Artificial plasmids are widely used as vectors in molecular cloning, serving to drive the replication of recombinant DNA sequences within host organisms.

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