Concept
Transposon
Mobile jumping DNA element
TRANS-poh-zon
High-yield clue
Transposons are 'jumping genes' that relocate via transposase and can ferry resistance genes onto plasmids.
Overview
A mobile genetic element that can move ('jump') between locations in a genome or between chromosome and plasmid using the enzyme transposase. Transposons help shuttle resistance genes onto transmissible plasmids.
Classification
- Mobile genetic element
- Transposase-mediated movement
- Insertion sequence or composite
- Can carry accessory genes
Lab & identification clues
- Insertion-sequence flanking-element vocabulary
- Composite transposon concept
- Transposase enzyme vocabulary
Associations
- Movement of resistance genes onto plasmids
- Insertional mutagenesis concept
- Genome-plasticity vocabulary
Commonly confused with
- Plasmid
- Integron
Frequently asked questions
What is Transposon?
A mobile genetic element that can move ('jump') between locations in a genome or between chromosome and plasmid using the enzyme transposase. Transposons help shuttle resistance genes onto transmissible plasmids.
What is the high-yield clue for Transposon?
Transposons are 'jumping genes' that relocate via transposase and can ferry resistance genes onto plasmids.
What is Transposon associated with?
Transposon is associated with Movement of resistance genes onto plasmids, Insertional mutagenesis concept, and Genome-plasticity vocabulary.
What is Transposon commonly confused with?
Transposon is commonly confused with Plasmid and Integron.
Original microbiology concept summary. Sources checked: OpenStax Microbiology 2e, NCBI Bookshelf Medical Microbiology, and CDC/WHO topic pages where applicable; reviewed 2026-06. Educational only; no diagnosis, treatment selection, infection-control instructions, or specimen-handling guidance.