What distinguishes transgenic organisms from gene knockout organisms?

Transgenic organisms are characterized by the introduction of foreign genes from other species into their genome. This process allows for the expression of new traits, often aimed at improving certain characteristics such as disease resistance, growth rate, or specific biochemical production.

The defining feature of transgenic organisms is this incorporation of exogenous genetic material, which can come from a variety of sources, including plants, animals, or microorganisms. This differentiation is vital in biotechnology and agriculture, as it enables the creation of genetically modified organisms that can offer enhanced performance or adaptability.

In contrast, gene knockout organisms are created by specifically disabling or "knocking out" one or more specific genes within their own genome. This process usually aims to study the function of those genes by observing the resulting phenotypic changes when those genes are not expressed. Unlike transgenic organisms, gene knockout organisms do not typically involve the addition of genes from other species.

Overall, the emphasis on the foreign gene insertion in transgenic organisms sets them apart from gene knockout organisms, making this understanding crucial in the field of genetics and genetic engineering.