Genetic engineering. Conceptual image showing a gloved hand with forceps manipulating a DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) molecule. Each strand or the double helix in a DNA molecule consists of a sugar-phosphate backbone attached to nucleotide bases. DNA contains sections called genes that encode the body's genetic information. Various technologies are used to alter genetic information, including the CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing system, which is used in genome engineering to cut and replace certain sections of DNA.