What is gene editing?

Gene editing refers to a technique that enables scientists to make precise alterations to an organism's DNA at specific locations. This technology allows for the addition, deletion, or alteration of genetic material in a targeted manner, which can lead to various applications, such as creating organisms with desired traits, addressing genetic diseases, or enhancing agricultural productivity.

The key aspect of gene editing that distinguishes it from other genetic manipulation techniques is its specificity. Engineers can select the exact site within the genome where the changes will be made, which minimizes unintended effects that might occur during the modification process. Techniques such as CRISPR-Cas9 have revolutionized this field, providing reliable and efficient methods for gene editing.

In contrast, cloning focuses on creating genetically identical copies of organisms without altering their DNA at specific locations, while hybridization involves combining traits from different species more broadly rather than targeting specific genes. Selective breeding is a more traditional approach that capitalizes on natural reproductive processes to enhance desirable traits, but it lacks the precision of gene editing techniques. Therefore, the provided definition accurately captures the essence of what gene editing involves and how it differentiates from other genetic methods.