Recombinant DNA and genetic engineering are related but distinct concepts in biotechnology

Recombinant DNA specifically refers to the laboratory technique of combining DNA fragments from different sources into a single molecule, such as inserting a human insulin gene into bacterial DNA to produce insulin. This process involves precise tools like restriction enzymes to cut DNA and ligases to join fragments. In contrast, genetic engineering is a broader term that encompasses all methods used to modify an organism’s genetic material, including recombinant DNA technology, gene editing tools like CRISPR-Cas9, and gene silencing techniques. While recombinant DNA is primarily focused on creating new DNA sequences by combining genes, genetic engineering applies various approaches to alter genetic functions and traits. Therefore, recombinant DNA acts as a fundamental tool within the wider field of genetic engineering, enabling advances in medicine, agriculture, and research.