Introduction to plasmid biology.

An array of issues pertaining to plasmid biology are presented in this unit. Topics include replicators, an explanation of the mechanism of replication and copy-number control, plasmid incompatibility, selectable markers, cloning sites, and factors to consider when choosing a plasmid vector, whether it be for production of ssDNA, cloning of large inserts, or expression of large quantities of recombinant proteins. Considerations are discussed for the use of plasmids in yeast, cultured mammalian cells and non-E. coli bacteria. Finally, maps of many common useful plasmids are presented. This unit has recently been updated and extensively revised to include some of the latest developments in plasmid construction and experimental use.