What is Genetic Engineering?
Genetic engineering is a technology that changes the genetic material (DNA) of an organism by adding, removing or altering genes. A useful gene from one organism can be transferred into another, producing a genetically modified organism (GMO) that carries a new characteristic. This transferred gene is sometimes called recombinant DNA.
How It Works (Simple Steps)
- The desired gene is cut out of the DNA using special "molecular scissors" called restriction enzymes.
- The gene is inserted into a carrier such as a bacterial plasmid (a small ring of DNA).
- The carrier delivers the gene into a host cell, which then makes the new product.
Key idea
Genetic engineering moves a chosen gene from one organism into another. The host then expresses the new gene — for example, bacteria that make human insulin.
Uses of Genetic Engineering
- Medicine — bacteria are engineered to produce human insulin for diabetics, and to make vaccines.
- Agriculture — crops such as pest-resistant maize and vitamin-rich "golden rice" are produced. Research also aims to improve Malaysian oil palm yield.
- Industry — engineered microorganisms make enzymes for detergents and food.
Example
The human insulin gene is inserted into bacteria. The bacteria multiply and produce large amounts of pure human insulin, which is cheaper and safer than insulin taken from animals.
Once the gene has been successfully inserted, the host cell is allowed to reproduce rapidly, so millions of identical cells are formed and each one makes the desired product. This is why the method is fast and inexpensive on a large scale. Scientists carefully screen the cells to select only those that have actually taken up the new gene.
Remember
Genetic engineering brings benefits but also raises concerns about safety, ethics and effects on the environment, so its use is regulated by law in Malaysia.