Genetic engineering is

Options

A. Study of extranuclear genes
B. Plastic surgery
C. Addition or removal of genes
D. Reconstruction surgery

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Definition of Genetic Engineering**: Genetic engineering is a biotechnological process that involves the manipulation of an organism's genetic material. This can include the addition, removal, or alteration of genes within the DNA of an organism.

**Hint**: Think about how genetic engineering changes the genetic makeup of organisms.

2. **Key Processes**: The primary processes involved in genetic engineering include the addition of new genes to an organism's genome, the removal of existing genes, or the modification of genes to alter their function. This manipulation can lead to desired traits or characteristics in the organism.

**Hint**: Consider what happens when you add or remove genes from DNA.

3. **Cytogenetics**: Genetic engineering often involves the study of cytogenes, which are genes located outside the nucleus, such as those found in plasmids in bacteria or in organelles like mitochondria and chloroplasts. This field is known as cytogenetics.

**Hint**: Remember that cytogenetics focuses on genes that are not located in the nucleus.

4. **Tools Used**: One of the essential tools in genetic engineering is the use of endonucleases, which are enzymes that can cut DNA at specific sites. This allows scientists to precisely edit the genetic material by removing or inserting genes.

**Hint**: Think about how cutting DNA is crucial for making changes in genetic engineering.

5. **Applications**: Genetic engineering has numerous applications, including agriculture (creating genetically modified crops), medicine (gene therapy), and research (developing model organisms). The goal is often to enhance certain traits or to produce substances that can be beneficial to humans.

**Hint**: Consider the various fields where genetic engineering is applied and how it benefits society.

6. **Distinction from Other Fields**: It is important to differentiate genetic engineering from other fields such as plastic surgery, which involves physical alterations to an organism's appearance rather than changes to its genetic material.

**Hint**: Think about how genetic engineering focuses on DNA, while plastic surgery focuses on physical form.

By understanding these steps, one can grasp the fundamental concepts of genetic engineering and its significance in biotechnology.