genetic engineering
noun Genetics.
the development and application of scientific methods, procedures, and technologies that permit direct manipulation of genetic material in order to alter the hereditary traits of a cell, organism, or population.
a technique that produces unlimited amounts of otherwise unavailable or scarce biological product by introducing DNA isolated from animals or plants into bacteria and then harvesting the product from a bacterial colony, as human insulin produced in bacteria by the human insulin gene.
Also called
biogenetics.
Origin of genetic engineering
First recorded in 1965–70
OTHER WORDS FROM genetic engineering
genetic engineer, nounWords nearby genetic engineering
British Dictionary definitions for genetic engineering
genetic engineering
noun
alteration of the DNA of a cell for purposes of research, as a means of manufacturing animal proteins, correcting genetic defects, or making improvements to plants and animals bred by man
Scientific definitions for genetic engineering
genetic engineering
The science of altering and cloning genes to produce a new trait in an organism or to make a biological substance, such as a protein or hormone. Genetic engineering mainly involves the creation of recombinant DNA, which is then inserted into the genetic material of a cell or virus.
Cultural definitions for genetic engineering
genetic engineering
The manipulation of DNA to produce new types of organisms, usually by inserting or deleting genes.
notes for genetic engineering
Genetic engineering has been developed commercially, with uses such as producing human
insulin or
bacteria that will keep plants from freezing in a mild frost. It is also used to produce
genetically modified organisms.
notes for genetic engineering
U.S. courts have ruled that the products of genetic engineering can be patented.
notes for genetic engineering
There is often controversy about the risk involved in releasing genetically engineered organisms into the environment.