Plasmid vs. Vector — What's the Difference?

A small, circular, double-stranded DNA molecule that replicates independently of chromosomal DNA in bacteria.

A carrier molecule used to transfer genetic material into a host cell.

Can be transferred between bacteria through conjugation.

Utilized in a variety of applications, from research to gene therapy.

Contains features like origin of replication and selectable markers.

Engineered to ensure the efficient insertion and expression of genes in host cells.

Naturally occurs in bacteria, carrying genes that may benefit the survival of the host.

Broadly includes plasmids, viruses, and artificial chromosomes.

Used in genetic engineering as vectors.

Often contains selectable markers for identifying successful transformations.

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.

A quantity, such as velocity, completely specified by a magnitude and a direction.

A circular, double-stranded unit of DNA that replicates within a cell independently of the chromosomal DNA. Plasmids are most often found in bacteria and are used in recombinant DNA research to transfer genes between cells.

A one-dimensional array.

(cytology) A loop of double-stranded DNA that is separate from and replicates independently of the chromosomes, most commonly found in bacteria, but also in archaeans and eukaryotic cells, and used in genetic engineering as a vector for gene transfer.

An element of a vector space.

A piece of DNA, usually circular, functioning as part of the genetic material of a cell, not integrated with the chromosome and replicating independently of the chromosome, but transferred, like the chromosome, to subsequent generations of daughter cells. In bacteria, plasmids often carry the genes for antibiotic resistance; they are exploited in genetic engineering as the vehicles for introduction of extraneous DNA into cells, to alter the genetic makeup of the cell. The cells thus altered may produce desirable proteins which are extracted and used; in the case of genetically altered plant cells, the altered cells may grow into complete plants with changed properties, as for example, increased resistance to disease.

An organism, such as a mosquito or tick, that carries disease-causing microorganisms from one host to another.

A small cellular inclusion consisting of a ring of DNA that is not in a chromosome but is capable of autonomous replication

A bacteriophage, plasmid, or other agent that transfers genetic material from one cell to another.

A force or influence.

A course or direction, as of an airplane.

To guide (a pilot or aircraft, for example) by means of radio communication according to vectors.

(mathematics) A directed quantity, one with both magnitude and direction; the signed difference between two points.

(mathematics) An ordered tuple representing such.

(mathematics) Any member of a (generalized) vector space.

(aviation) A chosen course or direction for motion, as of an aircraft.

(epidemiology) A carrier of a disease-causing agent.

(sociology) A person or entity that passes along an urban legend or other meme.

(psychology) A recurring psychosocial issue that stimulates growth and development in the personality.

The way in which the eyes are drawn across the visual text. The trail that a book cover can encourage the eyes to follow from certain objects to others.en

A memory address containing the address of a code entry point, usually one which is part of a table and often one that is dereferenced and jumped to during the execution of an interrupt.

(programming) A one-dimensional array.

A graphical representation using outlines; vector graphics.

(molecular biology) A DNA molecule used to carry genetic information from one organism into another.

To set (particularly an aircraft) on a course toward a selected point.

(computing) To redirect to a vector, or code entry point.

Same as Radius vector.

A directed quantity, as a straight line, a force, or a velocity. Vectors are said to be equal when their directions are the same and their magnitudes equal. Cf. Scalar.

A variable quantity that can be resolved into components

A straight line segment whose length is magnitude and whose orientation in space is direction

Any agent (person or animal or microorganism) that carries and transmits a disease;

Not all vectors replicate independently; some rely on the host cell's machinery or specific sequences to ensure their replication and expression.

A plasmid is a small, circular DNA molecule found in bacteria, capable of independent replication.

A vector is a carrier used to deliver genetic material into a host cell, which can be a plasmid, virus, or another DNA sequence.

Plasmids are naturally occurring and primarily used in bacteria, while other vectors, including viral vectors, are engineered for a broader range of host cells.

Plasmids can be engineered to carry and introduce specific genes into host cells, taking advantage of their natural replication mechanisms.

Yes, vectors, especially viral vectors, are used in gene therapy, vaccine development, and treating genetic disorders.

The choice depends on factors like the type of host cell, the size of DNA to be inserted, and the need for specific gene expression control.

Plasmids are essential for cloning, gene expression studies, and producing recombinant proteins, owing to their ease of manipulation and replication in host cells.

Key features include an origin of replication, selectable markers, and promoters to control gene expression.

Selectable markers, like antibiotic resistance genes, help identify cells that have successfully incorporated the vector.