Genetic Engineering
Definition
Genetic engineering is the direct manipulation of an organism's genes using biotechnology. It involves altering, adding, or removing genetic material to achieve desired traits.
Analogy
Think of genetic engineering like editing a document on your computer. Just as you can cut, copy, and paste text to make the document say exactly what you want it to, scientists can do the same with the DNA in an organism's cells.
Related terms
DNA: The molecule that carries most of the genetic instructions used in the development and functioning of all known living organisms.
Genome: The complete set of genes or genetic material present in a cell or organism.
Transgenic Organisms: Organisms that have inserted DNA from a different species.
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