What is genetic engineering?

Genetic engineering refers to the direct manipulation of an organism's genes using biotechnology. This process involves altering the genetic material of an organism, which can include adding, removing, or modifying specific DNA sequences. The primary goal of genetic engineering is to achieve desired traits or characteristics, which can be applied in various fields such as agriculture, medicine, and industrial biotechnology.

For example, in agriculture, genetic engineering can result in crops that are resistant to pests, diseases, or herbicides, enhancing yield and sustainability. In medicine, it can facilitate the production of insulin or other therapeutic proteins, improving treatment options for various diseases.

The other options describe different biotechnological processes or techniques but do not encompass the broader definition of genetic engineering. Developing new antibiotics is a research endeavor focusing on combating bacterial infections, while isolating proteins from cells pertains to protein purification methods. Selecting natural mutations in crops relates to classical breeding practices rather than the direct alteration of genetic material, which distinguishes it from the concept of genetic engineering.