XPlasMap is a tool that draws plasmid maps, showing features such as genes, promoters, multiple cloning sites, and restriction enzymes.

The maps are designed to be easily modified (e.g. to map new inserts in a vector), and features can be customized in a number of ways.

XPlasMap requires MacOSX. I don't know which versions are required; I know Tiger (10.4) works, I am pretty sure Panther (10.3) should work, and earlier versions might also work.

XPlasMap is free (as in no cost) and can be redistributed as a complete package. I make no guarantees or warranties of any kind.

XPlasMap manages to displays a circular plasmid backbone with four kinds of features: 'Multiple cloning sites' (MCS), 'Genes', 'Enzymes' but also basic plasmid information such as name, size and notes.

Here are some key features of "XPlasMap":

· The plasmid backbone is drawn as a plain circle (example). The name and (optional) date and creator are shown in the center, and comments (optional) are written underneath.
· Genes (which might also include features such as promoters, introns, etc) are shown as arcs overlying the backbone, with or without an arrow showing direction (example). The name of the gene can be dragged in or out, and the background colour, text colour, and thickness of the feature can be altered.
· Multiple cloning sites are drawn as arcs anchored to the backbone (example). The MCS can be dragged to new positions.
· Restriction sites are attached to the backbone (example), and can be dragged to new positions.

What's New in This Release: [ read full changelog ]

· Ovals, rectangles, and arrows for annotations.
· Auto-positioning for enzymes and gene text.
· Import from EMBOSS.
· Convert restriction sites to MCS/MCS to restriction sites.
· Change feature fonts on an individual basis.
· Insert, copy, and cut fragments by restriction site.
· Export to plain text.
· Import circular DNA from GenBank correctly.
· Plasmid name and description are moveable.
· Determine PNG and JPG resolution at export.
· Checkbox to identify ORFs in Genbank during import.
· Change "Insert fragment" shortcut from "⌘I" to "⌘V".
· Change "Edit plasmid info" shortcut to "⌘I".
· "Info" icon in toolbar to edit plasmid info.
· Many bugfixes.