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R factor

noun

a genetic component of some bacteria that provides resistance to antibiotics and can be transferred from one bacterium to another by conjugation.

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Origin of R factor

1960–65; r(esistance) factor

Also called resistance transfer factor, RTF

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019

Medicine definitions for r factor

R factor

n.

resistance plasmid

The American Heritage® Stedman's Medical Dictionary Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company.