Ti plasmids

Definition

Ti plasmids are circular DNA molecules found in the bacterium Agrobacterium tumefaciens. They are used in genetic engineering to transfer genes into plants, causing crown gall disease.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ti plasmids contain T-DNA, which integrates into the plant genome.
2. They are commonly used as vectors for creating genetically modified plants.
3. The virulence (vir) genes on Ti plasmids facilitate the transfer of T-DNA into plant cells.
4. Scientists can replace the tumor-inducing genes with beneficial genes to create transgenic plants.
5. Ti plasmids also contain opine catabolism genes that allow Agrobacterium to utilize opines produced by infected plants.

Related terms

Agrobacterium tumefaciens: A soil bacterium that causes crown gall disease and is used as a tool for plant genetic engineering.

T-DNA: Transfer DNA from a Ti plasmid that integrates into a plant's genome.

Gene Cloning: The process of creating copies of specific DNA sequences using vectors like Ti plasmids.