expression vectors

An expression vector is a specially designed piece of DNA used in genetic research to produce a specific protein in a host cell, such as bacteria or mammalian cells. Think of it as a molecular delivery vehicle that carries the gene of interest into the host and contains the necessary genetic elements to ensure the host's cellular machinery reads the gene and makes the corresponding protein. These vectors are essential tools for studying gene function, producing medicines like insulin, or engineering organisms with new traits. Essentially, they enable scientists to turn a gene into a working protein within a living cell.