Question

What is plasmid? Give its importance.

Answer 1

Plasmids are extra-chromosomal DNA molecules that replicate independent of chromosomal DNA. It has its own origin of replication. It carries many genes which benefits bacteria for survival. It contains antibiotic resistance genes. It is used as vectors in genetic engineering. Is is used to express genes that are not normally expressed in a cell. It is used in cloning, gene therapy, protein production, as gene model, etc.