What are vectors in genetics?

Vectors in genetics refer to organisms or mechanisms that facilitate the transfer of genetic material into another cell. This process is crucial for genetic engineering and biotechnology, where the goal is often to insert desired genes into specific cells to produce a given phenotype or to study gene function.

One common type of vector is a plasmid, which is a small, circular piece of DNA that can be used to introduce new genetic material into bacteria. Other vectors include viruses that can infect other types of cells, thereby delivering genetic material. By using vectors, scientists can manipulate genes, create genetically modified organisms, and conduct various forms of gene therapy.

The other options do not accurately define vectors in genetics. For instance, individuals expressing certain traits, while related to genetics, do not describe the mechanism of transferring genetic material. Cells that undergo mutations refer to changes in DNA sequences rather than the processes that introduce foreign DNA. Lastly, factors that influence genetic drift relate to population genetics and evolutionary theory, rather than the direct transfer of genetic material facilitated by vectors. Thus, understanding vectors is fundamental to modern genetic research and applications.