In the realm of biology, a vector refers to a living organism that serves as a conduit, transferring disease-causing agents or pathogens from a source to a host. Additionally, a vector can also play a crucial role in the reproductive process, for instance, a bee carrying pollen from one flower to another.

In the context of molecular biology, a vector is responsible for the transportation of genetic material. A classic example is a plasmid, which carries DNA sequences from the donor organism to the recipient cell. Other examples of molecular vectors encompass binary, shuttle, cloning, expression, and viral vectors.

Vectors in biology are classified into several categories, such as:

• Vectors in Immunology: These are organisms that act as intermediaries, transferring infectious diseases from one organism to another. Disease vectors primarily include arthropods and rodents.
• Vectors in Molecular Biology: These vectors are essentially the agents or vehicles that transport genetic material into a cell or an organism. The four primary types of molecular vectors are cloning, viral, expression, and shuttle vectors.
• Pollination Vectors: These vectors play a pivotal role in the plant reproductive process by transferring the reproductive elements from one plant to another, thereby facilitating pollination. Such vectors could either be abiotic or biotic.

Useful Links:

• Understanding Cloning Vector – Definition, Features, and Types
• Deeper Insight into Vector-Borne Diseases

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