What is genetic engineering?

Genetic engineering refers to the direct manipulation of an organism's genes using biotechnology techniques. This process allows scientists to add, remove, or alter genetic material within an organism's genome to achieve desired traits or characteristics. Techniques in genetic engineering can include methods such as CRISPR, gene cloning, or recombinant DNA technology, which enable precise changes to be made at the molecular level.

This definition captures the essence of how modern biotechnology is employed to enhance or modify organisms in ways that traditional breeding methods cannot achieve. For instance, genetic engineering can introduce new traits into plants to improve yield or resistance to disease, or it can produce genetically modified animals with specific desirable traits, which can lead to advancements in agriculture, medicine, and research. The focus on direct manipulation distinguishes genetic engineering from broader studies of genetics, such as examining genetic variation or exploring heredity through traditional means.