What is the term for the manipulation of DNA by deleting, replacing, or inserting DNA sequences?

The term that describes the manipulation of DNA by deleting, replacing, or inserting DNA sequences is genome editing. This process involves using various techniques to make precise changes to the genetic material of an organism. Genome editing technologies, such as CRISPR-Cas9, allow scientists to target specific genes and make modifications, leading to changes in an organism’s traits or functionalities.

This term encompasses a broader range of genetic manipulations beyond just knockout techniques or simple mutations, reflecting the advancement in the methodology that enables these precise alterations. Other terms like gene knockout refer specifically to methods that disrupt a gene's function, while gene mutation implies spontaneous or induced alterations without the same level of precision. The genetic code pertains to the set of rules defining how information in DNA is translated into proteins, and does not refer to the act of manipulating the sequences themselves.