Grody Gizmo and other

[Camnui]

tbh irl many viruses alter DNA of the host too (they basically reproduce by changing the cells DNA sometimes) so yea they can borderline the genetical traits we currently have in the game, but pathogens can be use for effects on massive scale unlike genetics where ya gotta do each person separately. It is not rare for diseases to cause bodily mutations, from scars to growths, some are even beneficial.

If you're looking for genetics stuff to be replicated by pathogens, then psychic powers like telekinesis and empathic thought seem best thematically. Psychics being created by a disease is a common trend in the stories that involve psychic powers, and it fits the idea that the pathogen is living in symbiosis.

This is sounding vaguely familiar... oh wait, http://stargate.wikia.com/wiki/Atanik_armband TLDR Armband injects virus that gives people super strength, speed, and intelligence, along with a couple other things. Then person eventually develops an immunity to the virus, and becomes normal again.