vector

An autonomously replicating DNA molecule into which foreign DNA fragments are inserted and then propagated in a host cell. Also living carriers of genetic material (such as pollen) from plant to plant, such as insects.

1. An organism, usually an insect, that carries and transmits pathogens . 2. A small DNA molecule (plasmid, virus, bacteriophage, artificial or cut DNA molecule) that can be used to deliver DNA into a cell. Vectors must be capable of being replicated and contain cloning sites for the introduction of foreign DNA.

A type of DNA, such as a plasmid or phage that is self-replicating and that can be used to transfer DNA segments among host cells. Also, an insect or other organism that provides a means of dispersal for a disease or parasite.

any living creature that transmits an infectious agent to humans.

An organism (e.g., Anopheles mosquitoes) that transmits an infectious agent (e.g. malaria parasites) from one host to the other (e.g., humans).

Representation of graphic images by mathematical formulas. For instance, a circle is defined by a specific position and radius.

An agent, such as a virus or a small piece of DNA called a plasmid, that carries a modified or foreign gene. When used in gene therapy, a vector delivers the desired gene to a target cell. See also cell, gene

See: cloning vector

A coordinate-based data structure commonly used to represent linear geographic features. Each linear feature is represented as an ordered list of vertices. Traditional vector data structures include double-digitized polygons and arc-node models.

A geometric element, stored as a point with x,y coordinates within a computer database.

Mathematical jargon for a list of scalar values.