Gene cassette

from Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

In the microbiological context, a gene cassette is a small DNA sequence that can be incorporated into an integron . It often consists of only one gene and also contains a recombination site for a specific integrase . The cassette can be free and mobile in the form of a ring, or it is built into the integron. In this way, for example, a resistance gene can be transmitted.

In the context of genetic engineering , the term gene cassette is often used in a way that corresponds to the term expression cassette . This cassette comprises at least one target gene, often also a marker gene, as well as a start ( promoter ) and a stop signal ( terminator ) to regulate the correct formation of the gene product (a protein or peptide ).

credentials

  • Erik C. Böttger, Fritz H. Kayser: Pocket Textbook Medical Microbiology. Georg Thieme Verlag, August 25, 2010.
  • Federal Agency for Nature Conservation: CBD-COP 9, press background - GMO. Genetic engineering as of May 13, 2008 (PDF, 62 kB) .