Adapter (genetics)

An adapter in genetic engineering is a short, chemically synthesized, double stranded DNA molecule which is used to link the ends of two other DNA molecules. It may be used to add sticky ends to cDNA allowing it to be ligated into the plasmid much more efficiently.

Adapters are used to link the ends of two DNA molecules that have different sequences at their ends. A conversion adapter is used to join a DNA insert cut with one Restriction enzyme, say EcoRl, with a vector opened with another enzyme, Bam Hl. This adapter can be used to convert the cohesive end produced by Bam Hl to one produced by Eco Rl or vice versa.