plasmid

https://doi.org/10.1351/goldbook.P04689
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
antibiotic
resistance
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 [Terms] [Paper]