Transgenic plants are plants that have been genetically modified to contain DNA from other species. This process allows scientists to introduce new traits, such as resistance to pests or improved nutritional content. For example, the Bt corn variety has been engineered to produce a protein that protects it from certain insects, reducing the need for chemical pesticides. These modifications are achieved through techniques like gene transfer, where specific genes are inserted into the plant's genome. Transgenic plants play a crucial role in agriculture, helping to increase crop yields and enhance food security in a growing global population.