Genes can be selectively cut at specific parts of the DNA. Proteins used to separate these parts are called restriction enzymes. This ability allows us to specifically isolate and analyze the part of DNA that was selected to be cut. Restrictions enzymes are used in gene splicing, where there are two DNA strands to begin with, and one end is cut to be replaced onto the other.
A method used to separate mixed up DNA, RNA, and proteins based on size is called gel electrophoresis. During this process, the different sections are put into a gel, which creates an electrical field that seperates the samples. The shorter molecules will move faster through the gel, while the longer ones slower. This process can help clone a DNA, as well as finding a duplicate of the DNA such as for solving criminal cases.
These different processes in genetic engineering result in transgenic organisms, which are animals with altered genes. Common examples of transgenic organisms are GMO foods such as corn and soybean, which have been genetically modified in order to fight pests and weeds on their own.
Sources:
http://knowgenetics.org/transgenic-organisms/
https://cellularphysiology.wikispaces.com/Gel+Electrophoresis
http://www.nature.com/scitable/definition/gel-electrophoresis-286
http://agbiosafety.unl.edu/basic_genetics.shtml
http://slideplayer.com/slide/5697522/
http://www.genesolutions.com/page8.html
Pictures:
http://biotechlearn.org.nz/var/biotechlearn/storage/images/themes/from_genes_to_genomes/images/restriction_enzyme/4713-1-eng-AU/restriction_enzyme_large.jpg
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/11/Agarose-Gelelektrophorese.png
http://vignette3.wikia.nocookie.net/gmofacts/images/1/1d/634155799840312500GFP_transgenic_mouse_4.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20121216045652
http://ic-nutrition-hot-topics.wikispaces.com/Are+Genetically+Modified+Foods+Safe+to+Eat%3F
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