What is the Difference Between Genetic Engineering and Genetic Modification?

The terms "genetic engineering" and "genetic modification" are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings. Genetic engineering is a specific type of genetic modification that involves the intentional introduction of a targeted change in a plant, animal, or microbial gene sequence to achieve a specific result. Both genetic engineering and genetic modification involve altering the genetic makeup of an organism, but the methods and purposes may differ.

Genetic engineering uses laboratory-based technologies to alter the DNA makeup of an organism, which may involve changing a single base pair, deleting a region of DNA, or adding a new segment of DNA. Some examples of genetic engineering include adding a gene from one species to an organism from a different species, or creating genetically modified plants and livestock.

Genetic modification, on the other hand, refers to the production of heritable improvements in plants or animals for specific uses, either through genetic engineering or other traditional methods. Genetic modification can include techniques such as selective breeding, crossbreeding, and fermentation, which are used to modify plants and animals through selective crosses or matings to achieve desired traits.

In summary, the main differences between genetic engineering and genetic modification are:

Genetic engineering is a specific type of genetic modification that involves the intentional introduction of a targeted change in a plant, animal, or microbial gene sequence.
Genetic engineering typically uses laboratory-based technologies to alter the DNA makeup of an organism.
Genetic modification can involve both genetic engineering and other traditional methods, such as selective breeding, crossbreeding, and fermentation.

On this page

What is the Difference Between Genetic Engineering and Genetic Modification?

Comparative Table: Genetic Engineering vs Genetic Modification

Here is a table summarizing the differences between genetic engineering and genetic modification:

Feature	Genetic Engineering	Genetic Modification
Definition	Genetic engineering refers to the direct manipulation of an organism's genome using biotechnology, with the intent to achieve a specific outcome. It is a type of genetic modification.	Genetic modification is a broader term that encompasses all techniques used to alter and modify DNA, including genetic engineering.
Methods	Involves targeted introduction of a foreign gene or genes into the genome of an organism. Techniques include microprojectile bombardment, electroporation, and microinjection.	Includes a wide range of techniques for altering genetic material, such as gene transfer, recombination, and synthesis of artificial genetic material.
Goal	To repair, alter, enhance, or suppress the form and functioning of a particular gene.	To create targeted changes in a plant, animal, or microbial gene sequence.
Applications	Widely used in medicine, agriculture, and industry. Commonly used to produce genetically modified organisms, including genetically engineered crops and animals.	Common applications include conventional breeding, mutagenesis, and genetic engineering.

Please note that genetic engineering is sometimes considered a type of genetic modification, so it can be confusing to differentiate the two. However, the table above highlights the main distinctions between the two terms.

Guilherme Mazui

Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.