genetic modification
genetic modification — noun
1. the scientific process of changing an organism's genes to give it new characteri
the scientific process of changing an organism's genes to give it new characteristics, such as making crops more resistant to disease or making farm animals grow faster
Farmers use genetic modification to grow crops that can survive with fewer chemicals.
to + infinitive expressing purpose: use [technology] to [do something]
The new rice variety was developed through genetic modification so that it contains extra vitamins.
passive: was developed through [technology]
Many countries require food producers to label products that involve genetic modification.
Dr. Okafor explained that genetic modification could help wheat plants grow with less water.
Public debate about genetic modification often focuses on the long-term effects for the environment.
- genetic engineering
often used as a synonym in everyday language, though in scientific writing 'genetic engineering' sometimes refers specifically to the lab technique of moving DNA between organisms
- gene editing
a more recent and precise set of techniques (such as CRISPR) that change specific DNA letters rather than inserting whole genes from another species
用法筆記
This sense describes the general concept of GM technology as discussed in news and public policy, covering food, farming, and environmental topics. For the precise laboratory procedure, see sense 2 (DNA MANIPULATION).
常見錯誤
2. a precise laboratory method used to remove, change, or insert DNA segments withi
a precise laboratory method used to remove, change, or insert DNA segments within an organism's genome, often combining genetic material from unrelated species to produce specific traits in the organism
The lab team used genetic modification to insert a bacterium's gene into the corn plant's DNA.
insert + into: specific laboratory operation
Through genetic modification, researchers deleted a short DNA segment linked to a muscle disease in mice.
Sofia argued that performing genetic modification on human embryos creates serious ethical problems.
A tomato was given a longer shelf life by genetic modification that slowed the ripening process.
In the university laboratory, genetic modification was used to create bacteria that break down plastic waste.
- recombinant DNA technology
the specific method of cutting and joining DNA from different sources; a narrower term used mainly in molecular biology
- transgenesis
the process of transferring a gene from one species into a different species; a subtype of genetic modification
用法筆記
This sense refers specifically to recombinant DNA technology performed in a laboratory. It is the preferred meaning in scientific journals and technical discussions. Unlike sense 1, which covers the broad social topic, this sense names the hands-on manipulation of DNA molecules.