In this second edition, the author presents a basic introduction to genetic engineering techniques for prokaryotes and eukaryotes. This book simply and concisely describes the full range of enabling technologies available. The book starts with a profound introduction into the development of genetic engineering over the last 30 years. It then proceeds to the basics which are divided into three parts: Part I presents the basis of genetic engineering (Chapter 2-4), Part II (Chapter 5-8) deals with the methodology of gene manipulation and Part III (Chapter 9-14) gives an introduction into genetic engineering in action. The introduction and all chapters are closed by a figure that gives an overview of the linkage of all compartments of the chapter (concept map). The author discusses the applications of genetic engineering like basic molecular biology, working with nucleic acids, the tools of the trade, the biology of genetic engineering, cloning strategies, selection, screening and analysis of recombinants, as well as genetic engineering in a clear manner. "It's genetic engineering in a nutshell" -L. J. IRAKLIOTIS summarises in a review. All basic knowledge is marked in the texts in black. Hints on where to find further literature and for using the World Wide Web are presented in the appendix. The book closes with a glossary of the main genetic terms. The book is not only an excellent resource for non-experts in biology, but is also helpful as a brief research tool for molecular biologists and for students of molecular biology. It should be considered as a basic literature for all life-science scientists and interested people.