Genetic engineering, recombinant DNA technology, genetic modification/manipulation (GM), and gene splicing are terms that apply to the direct manipulation of an organism's genes. Genetic engineering is different from selective breeding, where the organism's genes are manipulated indirectly. Genetic engineering uses the techniques of molecular cloning and transformation to alter the structure and characteristics of genes directly. Genetic engineering techniques are now commonplace in medicine and agriculture, and are used from everything to treating diseases, improving crop yields, and improving the quality of produce to be more healthy.