Difference between revisions of "Genetic engineering"
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'''Genetic engineering''' (also known as '''genetic modification''') is the manipulation of an | '''Genetic engineering''' (also known as '''genetic modification''') is the manipulation of an organism's DNA. Genetic engineering has numerous applications in agriculture, medicine and research. | ||
The techniques are used to produce new lifeforms with more desirable properties for human use or create biological factories that produce specific proteins. The most famous example of the protein factor is insulin used to treat diabetics. | |||
Many people see genetic engineering as a recent development. And direct manipulation of DNA is. However, humans have engaged in genetic engineering through the process of selective breeding since the times of ancient Egypt to produce crops with superior yield or domesticated animals. | |||
== Genetic Engineering in Science Fiction == | == Genetic Engineering in Science Fiction == | ||
Revision as of 21:18, 28 January 2008
Genetic engineering (also known as genetic modification) is the manipulation of an organism's DNA. Genetic engineering has numerous applications in agriculture, medicine and research.
The techniques are used to produce new lifeforms with more desirable properties for human use or create biological factories that produce specific proteins. The most famous example of the protein factor is insulin used to treat diabetics.
Many people see genetic engineering as a recent development. And direct manipulation of DNA is. However, humans have engaged in genetic engineering through the process of selective breeding since the times of ancient Egypt to produce crops with superior yield or domesticated animals.
Genetic Engineering in Science Fiction
Genetic engineering is a rather common theme in science fiction in the latter half of the twentieth century.
- In the Star Trek universe, genetically enhanced humans known as Augments were created in the last years of the twentieth century. Als, the Jem'Hadar are genetically engineered soldiers.
- In the animated TV series Exosquad, the main antagonists are the Neosapiens, genetically engineered humans created as laborers.
- In the Warhammer 40,000 Universe, the most powerful soldiers of the Imperium of Man are the genetically enhanced Space Marines.
- In the Stargate franchise, the Goa'uld have created an offshoot of mankind known as Jaffa to serve as infantry and incubators for young Goa'uld symbiotes, although it is possible for a Goa'uld to convert an adult human into a Jaffa.