An extrachromosomal genetic element consisting generally of a circular duplex of DNA which can replicate independently of chromosomal DNA. R-plasmids are responsible for the mutual transfer of antibioticresistance among microbes. Plasmids are used as vectors for cloning DNA in bacteria or yeast host cells.
Source:
PAC, 1992, 64, 143
(Glossary for chemists of terms used in biotechnology (IUPAC Recommendations 1992))
on page 162
Transformed and rewritten from PDF version (entry
http://www.iupac.org/goldbook/P04689.pdf)
by: Miloslav Nic, Jiri Jirat, Bedrich Kosata, ICT Prague, Czech Republic
