Compare and contrast the types of vectors used in recombinant DNA technology.

All vectors have certain things in common. They are small enough to be easily manipulated, and they are able to survive for long periods of time inside cells. Also, they usually contain genetic markers that help identify the cells that receive the vector. However, there are different types of vectors available. Bacterial plasmids are commonly used, but they are limited in the size of the genes they can carry. Transposons and viruses can also be used as vectors. They have the advantages of being able to carry large amounts of DNA and to integrate themselves into the chromosome of the cell, making them some of the most stable types of vectors.