Scientists have recently modified the bacteria that cause tooth decay by inserting a fragment of DNA into the bacteria's DNA that prevents it from producing lactic acid. What is this process called?

The bacteria’s DNA was deliberately changed by inserting a DNA fragment that prevents lactic acid production. Directly altering an organism’s genetic material in this way is called genetic engineering. A mechanical or biological vector can carry DNA into cells, and electrophoresis separates DNA fragments, but neither names the overall process described.

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