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
Your notes
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.