Cells are then taken from another organism, usually of the same species. This second set of cells usually contains different characteristics that are also believed to be useful. The two are combined and a new animal is grown that is an exact copy of the original. This animal has been cloned for beneficial results. .
Boyer and Cohen decided to combine their discoveries and make better use of them. Boyer's enzyme would allow Cohen to introduce specific DNA segments to plasmids. These plasmids could be used to clone precise, previously targeted strands of DNA. Within four months Boyer and Cohen's joint efforts had resulted in cloning predetermined patterns of DNA. .
After further refinements, three patents, and marketing and licensing agreements, Boyer and Cohen had given birth to a huge international industry that is now benefiting people all over the world. .
There are different forms of genetic engineering including cloning, modified food and vegetative reproduction. .
Food products can be genetically modified for various advantages over natural foodstuffs. For example, tomatoes have been genetically modified so that they grow square in shape instead of round. This would benefit packaging. .
Food products can also be genetically modified for reasons of entertainment. Carrots have been modified to be purple instead of orange for no reasons of advantage whatsoever. .
Vegetative reproduction is considered by some people to be a natural form of cloning. When a plant has matured, it grows extra leaves usually on long spindly vines. These extra leaves are then sometimes cut off and placed in pots of soil. Given the correct conditions and proper care, these cuttings will grow roots and develop into a new plant that is identical to its parent. .
There are a number of techniques for moving genes artificially. The oldest of these techniques is called Recombinant DNA. There are other, more modern methods of moving genes artificially such as electro- and chemical poration, microinjection and biobalistics.