Historical development of genetic engineering.

SIGNIFICANCE: Genetic engineering, or biotechnology, is the use of molecular biology, genetics, and biochemistry to manipulate genes and genetic materials in a highly controlled fashion. It has led to major advancements in the understanding of the molecular organization, function, and manipulation of genes, including the sequencing of the human genome. The methods have been used to identify causes of and solutions to many different human genetic diseases and have led to the development of many new medicines, vaccines, plants, foods, animals, and environmental cleanup techniques.