What is Genetic Engineering?

Genetic engineering is the modification of the genetic code, the DNA of an organism.

The nucleotide sequence of a gene may be changed, using genome editing techniques such as CRISPR/Cas9. A gene could be removed, or knocked out, altogether, or, a new one could be inserted.

For instance, adding a gene from another species to create a transgenic organism.

As a result, researchers and clinicians can alter the proteins produced by an organism. For example, in gene therapy, a gene can be introduced into a patient to produce a protein they are lacking, potentially curing their disease.