What is the name of the circular genetic material found in bacterial cells that is often used in genetic engineering?

The circular genetic material found in bacterial cells that is often used in genetic engineering is known as a plasmid. Plasmids are small, circular pieces of DNA that exist independently of the chromosomal DNA within bacterial cells. Their structure allows them to replicate independently, making them particularly useful tools in genetic engineering and biotechnology.

Researchers frequently insert genes of interest into plasmids to create recombinant DNA. These engineered plasmids can then be introduced into bacterial cells through a process called transformation, allowing the bacteria to express new traits, such as antibiotic resistance or the production of proteins. This capability of plasmids to enable the transfer of genetic material makes them invaluable for cloning and manipulating genes in various applications, ranging from medicine to agriculture.