Tech Trends in Practice

TREND 16Genomics and Gene Editing

The One-Sentence Definition

Genomics is an interdisciplinary field of biology that focuses on the understanding and manipulation of DNA and genomes of living organisms. Gene editing is a group of technologies that enables genetic engineering in order to change the DNA and genetic structure of living organisms.

What Is Genomics and Gene Editing?

Our understanding of the human genome has continued to increase since it was first accurately sequenced in 2003. In large part this is due to the increasingly powerful computers and sophisticated software tools that have become available.

A Quick Biology Refresher

All living cells contain DNA that determines the traits that a cell will pass on when it divides. This DNA can be thought of as a “code” which governs the production of the new proteins that are built as living cells divide. As we have a better understanding of how sequences of DNA (genes) are passed on during that division process, we can have a better idea of the impact it will have on a living organism’s ability to cope with injury, allergies, food intolerances, hereditary diseases, or any number of internal or external factors. The study of this field of science is known as genomics.

Manipulating Our DNA

Taking that a step further, biotechnology is advancing to the point where it’s viable to alter the DNA encoded within a cell. This will influence the characteristics or traits (phenotypes) that its descendants will have after it reproduces ...