Genetic Engineering
Genetic engineering is the artificial transfer of genes from one organism into another. Scientists do this so they can add a trait to an organism that does not have that trait. Usually, they genetically modify plants, so they can be more beneficial and easier to plant for farmers. If a gene needs to be added or removed from an organism, it is usually done in the early stages. To be even more specific, genetic engineering needs to be done when the organism is still one cell because they would have to add the gene to all the cells in any different stage of life. To genetically modify an organism you need three things: a gene to be transferred, a host cell for the gene to be inserted in, and a vector to effect the transfer. There are an endless number of organisms that can be genetically modified. Many of the foods we eat are genetically modified, too. Even though, genetic engineering seems simple, it is very complicated and complex.
|