Question

Autonomously replicating circular extrachromosomal DNA is called -

• A. Recombinant DNA
• B. Cybrid
• C. Plasmid
• D. Yeast artificial chromosome

Hint:

Memorize the definition of a plasmid. It is a fundamental tool in molecular cloning and genetic engineering, acting as a "vector" to carry foreign genes into bacteria.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question provides a definition and asks for the corresponding biological term. The key features are: autonomously replicating, circular, and extrachromosomal DNA.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Recombinant DNA: A molecule of DNA created by joining together DNA segments from different sources. It is not a naturally occurring entity with a specific name.
Cybrid: A cytoplasmic hybrid cell produced by fusing a whole cell with an enucleated cell. It is a cell, not a DNA molecule.
Plasmid: A small, circular, double-stranded DNA molecule that is distinct from a cell's chromosomal DNA. Plasmids are found in bacteria and some eukaryotes, and they replicate independently of the main chromosome. This perfectly matches the definition.
Yeast artificial chromosome (YAC): An engineered DNA molecule used to clone DNA sequences in yeast cells. YACs are linear, not circular.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The term for an autonomously replicating, circular, extrachromosomal DNA molecule is a plasmid.