extrachromosomal

American  

[ek-struh-kroh-muh-soh-muhl] / ˌɛk strəˌkroʊ məˈsoʊ məl /

adjective

Genetics.

1. of or relating to DNA that exists outside the main chromosome and acts independently.

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Etymology

Origin of extrachromosomal

First recorded in 1935–40; extra- + chromosomal ( def. )

Example Sentences

One reason for the gene’s rapid spread: Klebsiella is adept at grabbing plasmids—extrachromosomal DNA–containing resistance genes directly from other bacteria.

From Science Magazine

These chains—the longest extrachromosomal genetic material ever found—most likely enter single-celled archaea and help them break down methane.

From Scientific American

“I don’t think anything else that’s been discovered is as big as these guys are,” among previously known extrachromosomal DNA elements, Doolittle says.

From Science Magazine

Scientists first noticed this so-called extrachromosomal DNA five decades ago.

From New York Times

Those clumps went by many names over the years, such as double minutes and extrachromosomal DNA.

From New York Times