A plasmid is a small, circular, double-stranded DNA molecule that is distinct from a cell's chromosomal DNA. Plasmids naturally exist in bacterial cells, and they also occur in some eukaryotes. Often, the genes carried in plasmids provide bacteria with genetic advantages, such as antibiotic resistance.

Are plasmids double-stranded RNA?

RNA plasmids are found as both single-stranded and double-stranded forms and replicate in a manner similar to certain RNA viruses. ... Unlike RNA viruses, RNA plasmids do not contain genes for coat proteins.

Are there single-stranded plasmids?

Plasmid pC194 was found to exist in a double-stranded and a single-stranded DNA form in Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus. This single-stranded DNA was found as a circular molecule of the same size as the parental monomer and corresponded to only one of the two DNA strands.