Modifying genes means changing the instructions that make up the things that make up a living thing, like plants and animals. Genes are like a recipe that tells the body how to work, and altering or modifying those instructions can change characteristics in an organism. For example, some scientists modify the genes of plants to make them grow bigger and tastier fruits and vegetables. Other scientists modify the genes of animals to make them stronger or faster. Modifying genes can also be used to treat or prevent diseases.