Proteins are made up of strings of amino acids. The number, order and kind of amino acids determine the property of that protein. DNA holds the information necessary to order the amino acids correctly. The DNA transmits this hereditary information from one generation to the next. But it wasn't until three decades later that even larger strides occurred in the field.
Researchers develop the ability to isolate genes.
Specific genes code for specific proteins. In the 1980s Scientists discover how to transfer pieces of genetic information from one organism to another, allowing the expression of desirable traits in the recipient organism. This is called genetic engineering, one process used in biotechnology. The first commercial application of this technology is used to develop human insulin for diabetes treatment. 1985 Genetically engineered plants resistant to insects, viruses, and bacteria are field tested for the first time.