Genetic Engineering

Definition

Genetic engineering refers to the process where scientists alter an organism’s genetic material (DNA) in order to achieve desired traits.

Analogy

Imagine genetic engineering as a video game character customization screen. You can change your character’s appearance, skills, abilities etc., similarly scientists can modify an organism’s DNA for desired characteristics.

Related terms

Recombinant DNA Technology: A technology that allows DNA from two different species to be combined into one molecule. Like mixing two different colors of play-doh together.

Gene Splicing: The process where segments of DNA are cut out and replaced with new segments. It's similar to cutting out a scene from a movie and replacing it with another one.

Transgenic Organisms: These are organisms whose genome has been altered by inserting foreign genes into their cells. Like giving Superman (an organism) the ability to turn invisible (a trait from another organism).