I am curious as to how scientists actually look at DNA inside a cell, and are they now able to manipulate DNA?

Question

what kind of microscope do you need to look at DNA and tools to manipulate it.

Answer 1

Usually you use a stain (usually fluorescent) which will detect DNA or chromatin (DNA + packing proteins), and this lets you see the nucleus and the DNA inside it. So you'll be able to see if the DNA is spread out (in an interphase cell) or condensed (in a dividing cell), or even if it is being degraded (in a dying cell).

You *can* specifically stain for individual genes or chromosome regions:

Karyotyping methods allow you to detect chromosome "bands", or to detect either the telomeres (chromosome ends) or the centromeres. These can also be fluorescent.

FISH ("Fluorescent In Situ Hybridization") is a method for staining a specific gene. You design a DNA sequence which is complementary to that of your gene of interest, and then label it with a fluorescent dye. This is then used as a probe to detect your gene.

None of these actually allow you to *manipulate* DNA.

For that molecular biology and genetic techniques are required - not a microscope.

Answer 2

DNA can be seen with an electron microscope.

There are many ways to manipulate DNA.  If you are asking how scientists can for example cut it from one organism and insert it into another, enzymes, primers, and rapid changes in temperature are used to cut and then 'glue' a piece of DNA into another strand.

Answer 3

An easy way is to stain them  and one can see chromosomes, DNA, with light microscope  with 1000X magnification, easily. Electron microscope is also used to see them in more detail. There are other types microscope, also

The are many tools, one can even purchase the  packaged kits.