A vector in cell biology and molecular biology is the term for an agent used to insert genetic material (usually DNA) into a cell or organism. A difference is made between cloning and expression vectors.
A cloning vector is able to replicate autonomously. He can be used to make stable cell lines. This means that after dividing the cell, both the parent and the daughter cell contain a copy of the vector. The technique is also suitable for the production of genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
An expression vector is unable to replicate. These types of vectors are used mainly for expressing (large amounts) of protein.
A vector often has the form of a circular piece of DNA (a plasmid). But he can also exist in other forms. For larger DNA fragments, a cosmid is often used. Artificial chromosomes, such as the Yeast Artificial Chromosome (YAC) or the Bacterial Artificial Chromosome (BAC) can also be used. In some cases (bacteria) are used viruses. Also see
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