Genetic engineering

Genetic engineering is the deliberate alteration of an organism’s genetic material by adding, removing, or modifying DNA. It enables targeted changes that can be inherited or expressed in particular cells.

CRISPR gene editing: A genome-editing approach that uses programmable guide molecules and enzymes to target specific DNA sequences. CRISPR directs DNA changes to chosen genomic locations.
Recombinant insulin: Insulin produced by cells carrying engineered DNA that encodes the human hormone. Engineered microbes made a human therapeutic protein at commercial scale.
Recombinant DNA: DNA formed by joining genetic sequences that originated from different sources. The recombinant DNA era established the core idea of assembling engineered genetic material.
Bioethics: The study of ethical questions arising in medicine, biology, and the life sciences. Genetic engineering raises questions about consent, fairness, and acceptable intervention.
Homologous recombination: A process in which matching DNA sequences exchange strands, enabling precise repair or alteration of genetic material. Engineered DNA templates can guide targeted sequence replacement through this process.
Genetically modified crops: Crop plants whose genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering techniques. Crop engineering applies targeted genetic changes to traits such as pest resistance.
Restriction enzyme: An enzyme that recognizes particular DNA sequences and cuts DNA at or near those sites. These enzymes enabled early researchers to cut and recombine DNA predictably.
Germline gene editing: The alteration of DNA in reproductive cells or embryos in ways that can be inherited by descendants. Heritable edits make engineering decisions consequential beyond the treated individual.
Transgenesis: The introduction of genetic material from another organism into a recipient organism. It is one specific route for adding DNA through genetic engineering.
CAR T-cell therapy: A cancer treatment that modifies a patient’s T cells to recognize and attack tumor cells. Engineered immune cells demonstrate a direct therapeutic use in patients.

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