Group of new research techniques that manipulate the
DNA (genetic material) of cells. The gene-splicing technique, which produces
recombinant DNA, is a method of transporting selected genes from one species to another. For example, in this technique, the genes, which are actually portions of molecules of
DNA, are removed from the donor (insect, plant, mammal or other organism) and spliced into the genetic material of a
virus; then the
virus is allowed to infect recipient bacteria. In this way the bacteria become recipients of both viral and foreign genetic material. When the
virus replicates within the bacteria, large quantities of the foreign as well as viral material are made.