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.

Review Questions

• What is the role of T-DNA in Ti plasmids?
• How do scientists use Ti plasmids in genetic engineering?
• What is the function of virulence (vir) genes on Ti plasmids?

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.