A movable
DNA element that can be inserted at new sites into
plasmids or
chromosomes independently of the host cell recombination system. Prokaryotic transposons can
carry
genes that confer new phenotypic properties, such as
resistance to antibiotics on the host.
Source:
PAC, 1992, 64, 143
(Glossary for chemists of terms used in biotechnology (IUPAC Recommendations 1992))
on page 167