What is defined as the complete set of genes or genetic material present in a cell or organism?

The term that defines the complete set of genes or genetic material present in a cell or organism is the genome. The genome encompasses all the hereditary information encoded in the DNA, which includes both the genes that code for proteins and the non-coding regions of DNA. This complete collection enables organisms to function, develop, and reproduce, as it contains all the instructions necessary for life.

In contrast, gene expression refers to the process by which information from a gene is used to synthesize functional gene products, typically proteins. Gene knockout describes a genetic technique where a specific gene is deliberately inactivated or "knocked out" to study its function, while genetic profiling involves analyzing DNA sequences to identify individuals based on their unique genetic makeup. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify why "genome" is the most accurate term for the complete set of genetic material present in an organism.