What process involves the artificial transfer of genetic material from one donor cell or organism to another?

The process that involves the artificial transfer of genetic material from one donor cell or organism to another is known as genetic engineering. This technique allows scientists to modify the genetic structure of an organism by introducing, removing, or altering DNA sequences.

Genetic engineering is utilized in various applications such as creating genetically modified organisms (GMOs), producing insulin, and developing disease-resistant crops. It is fundamentally focused on altering the genetic makeup, which can lead to specific traits being expressed in the recipient organism.

The other processes mentioned do not fully encompass the definition of artificial transfer of genetic material. Gene therapy, for instance, aims to treat or prevent disease by inserting genes into a patient’s cells, but it typically focuses on therapeutic applications rather than the broader modification of an organism's genetic traits. Cloning refers to creating a genetically identical copy of an organism and does not involve transferring genetic material between different cells or organisms. Selective breeding is a traditional method that involves choosing parent organisms with desired traits to produce offspring, rather than directly transferring genetic material.