Organelles are small structures, which perform specific functions in a cell. They are embedded within the cytoplasm of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Organelles are analogous to the internal organs of the body. They are specialized and carry out functions that allow cells to function normally like generating energy for cells and controlling the growth as well as reproduction of cells. Fundamental processes like cell respiration and photosynthesis also take place in the organelles. Some examples of the organelles found in animal and plant cells include the nucleus, endoplasmic reticulum, ribosomes, Golgi complex, lysosomes, chloroplast and vacuoles.

Modifying organelles through the genetic engineering process is possible. Genetic engineering allows scientists to alter the structure of genes. This is a deliberate modification that involves manipulating the genetic material of an organism directly. A genetically engineered organelle can give cells a new function. One or several traits that were not found in the organism in the past can be seen.

Multiple copies of organelles exist in cells and they contain their own DNA. Once a new gene or artificial chromosome is introduced into an organelle, it gets multiplied by the cell. Consequently, new cells that have multiple copies of the introduced gene are produced. In some situations that may be induced, plant cells increase the copies of organelles in them. Therefore, the organelles that have been genetically engineered can secure multiple copies of the introduced DNA, causing the engineered genes to be expressed at a higher level.

One of the main benefits of genetic engineering of organelles, particularly engineering plant chloroplasts is increasing the levels of productivity in engineered plants. Therefore, farmers can cost-effectively produce more food. If food is less expensive, feeding people all over the world would be easier.

The genetic engineering of organelles also allows for foreign DNA to be transferred from one generation to the other. Organelles are transferred as matching copies through maternal inheritance. They are transferred as matching copies from female animals to the offspring or from plants to the seeds without any changes. For this reason, the stability of genetically engineered characteristics from one generation to the next one is assured.

The genetic engineering of organelles also enables researchers to change the way plants and animals grow. Maturity can take place faster. Plants can also mature even if the typical growing conditions are absent.

Genetic modification also helps to create resistance to typical forms of organism death. For instance, it is possible to include pest resistance to the genetic profiles of plants so that they may mature as crops without further additives. The genetic profiles of animals can also be modified to mitigate the risks of common health concerns which can affect the species or breed.

Modifying the organelles of cells also allows scientists to develop specific traits in plants and animals, making them more attractive for consumption or for use. It is possible to modify animals to grow more muscle tissue or produce more milk. Genetic engineering also allows for the creation of new products by combining or adding different profiles together. An example is taking a potato plant and altering its profile so that it can produce more nutrients per kilo calorie.