genetic engineering: Quick Facts

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Last updated

Nov. 8, 2026

News •

Synthetic DNA molecules enable precise targeting of cancer-linked genes • Nov. 3, 2026, 9:24 PM ET (News-Medical)

Nobel laureate Richard Roberts says it’s ‘nonsense’ to fear foreign dependence due to genetically modified crop use • Oct. 27, 2026, 11:25 AM ET (The Hindu)

Happy Birthday, dire wolves. Could it be time to grow the pack? • Oct. 15, 2026, 11:09 AM ET (USA Today)

Photos and Videos

Vaccine development

Dense rows of tall green corn plants in a genetically modified corn field, with tassels visible at the top against a pale sky.

A pile of uncooked golden rice grains, which are bright yellow due to genetic modification to contain vitamin A.

A step-by-step diagram shows donor DNA and vector DNA cut with restriction enzymes to create overhangs, mixed and sealed with ligase to form recombinant DNA, which is introduced into bacterial cells. The recombinant DNA replicates as the cells divide, producing clones.

genetically modified humans

Learn about genetic engineering and how it is applied to microbes to genetically modify them for use in medicines, food, and fuel

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Topics

recombinant DNA genetically modified organism RNA splicing transgene gene splicing transgenic organism gene targeting vector nuclear transplantation embryo transfer cloning optogenetics tissue engineering human-factors engineering bionics Microarray cryopreservation nuclear transfer viral vector biochip

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Key People

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Ian Wilmut

British biologist

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George Ledyard Stebbins, Jr.

American botanist