Final answer:
Transgenesis is a genetic engineering process where DNA from one organism is inserted into another, creating transgenic organisms that can produce different proteins, such as vaccines and hormones, and improve plant traits.
Step-by-step explanation:
Transgenesis is not a property of DNA itself, but a process involving the insertion of DNA from one organism into the genome of another organism, creating a transgenic organism. During this process, recombinant DNA technology is often utilized, which allows scientists to insert any DNA into a bacteria, and can result in the production of different proteins. This is significant in various applications, including agricultural improvements where transgenic plants are created with enhanced traits. It's also crucial in medical research and therapies, such as the development of vaccines, antibiotics, and hormones. Notably, the development of transgenic organisms is a testament to the complexity of genetic engineering, where useful traits can be introduced into organisms for beneficial outcomes.
Some historical context regarding genetic elements such as transposons is also relevant. Discovered by Barbara McClintock, transposons are sequences of DNA that can move to different positions within the genome of a single cell, an action referred to as transposition. Once thought to be 'junk' DNA, these are now recognized for their role in genetic regulation and their contribution to genetic diversity.