vector backbone

A vector backbone is the core structure of a plasmid—a circular piece of DNA used in genetic engineering. It contains essential elements like a replication origin (so it can multiply inside a host cell) and selection markers (to identify cells that received the vector). The vector backbone acts as a vehicle or scaffold, carrying foreign genetic material (the gene of interest) into cells. Think of it as a customizable delivery truck, where the backbone provides the basic framework, and scientists insert the specific gene they want to study or modify.