ScienceAugust 13, 2026
plasmid
PLAZ-mid
Definition
A small, circular, double-stranded DNA molecule that is distinct from a cell's chromosomal DNA and can replicate independently.
Etymology
Coined in 1952 by American molecular biologist Joshua Lederberg, the term is a combination of the Greek 'plasma' (something molded or formed) and the suffix '-id' (denoting a discrete unit or particle).
In the news
In this article, plasmids are referenced as a system for creating minichromosomes to study how genetic binding proteins like GCN4 interact with DNA structures. They serve as a controlled, simplified model to observe how chromatin proteins restrict the access of transcription factors.
Nucleosomes and IDRs suppress promiscuous GCN4 binding on minichromosomes
Read the full article ↗Nature