A plasmid is a small, extrachromosomal 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; however, plasmids are sometimes present in archaea and eukaryotic organisms.

Apr 7, 2019 · A plasmid is a small, circular piece of DNA that is different than the chromosomal DNA, which is all the genetic material found in an organism’s chromosomes. It replicates independently of chromosomal DNA.

Mar 8, 2025 · A plasmid is a small circular DNA molecule found in bacteria and some other microscopic organisms. Plasmids are physically separate from chromosomal DNA and replicate independently. They typically have a small number of genes — notably, some associated with antibiotic resistance — and can be passed from one cell to another.

Jan 14, 2014 · At their most basic level, plasmids are small circular pieces of DNA that replicate independently from the host's chromosomal DNA. They are mainly found in bacteria, but also exist naturally in archaea and eukaryotes such as yeast and plants.

Mar 13, 2022 · Plasmids are small circular DNA fragments, double-stranded, self-replicating extra chromosomal structures found in many microorganisms. The term Plasmid was coined by Joshua Lederberg in 1952. Plasmids are important as genetic tools, which are used to introduce, manipulate or delete certain genes from the host cell.

Mar 7, 2025 · Plasmid, in microbiology, an extrachromosomal genetic element that occurs in many bacterial strains. Plasmids are circular deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) molecules that replicate independently of the bacterial chromosome.

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.

Apr 6, 2024 · Plasmids are small, extrachromosomal DNA structures found primarily within bacterial cells, distinct from the primary chromosomal DNA. Unlike the chromosomal DNA that encompasses the essential genetic blueprint of the organism, plasmids are typically circular and replicate autonomously.

Jan 18, 2025 · Explore the essential role of plasmids in gene transfer, their diverse structures, and types, enhancing our understanding of genetic exchange. Plasmids are small, circular DNA molecules that exist independently of chromosomal DNA in bacteria and some eukaryotes.

Plasmids are small, circular DNA molecules. They exist separately from the main DNA in cells and can copy themselves. They are predominantly found in bacteria and archaea, but can also be identified in certain eukaryotic organisms, such as yeast.