Biotechnology and Its Applications

Definition of Biotechnology

Biotechnology: Technology based on biology, utilizing cellular and biomolecular processes.
Purpose: Develop technologies and products to improve lives and the health of the planet.
Historical Use: Utilized for over 6,000 years in food production (e.g., bread, cheese, dairy preservation).

Definition: Combines DNA from two different species and inserts it into a host organism.
Applications:
- Medicine: Biopharmaceuticals, diagnostics.
- Agriculture: Genetically modified crops (fruits and vegetables).
- Industry: Biofuels and energy applications.
Advantages:
- Genetically modified products can outperform traditional options.
- Enhanced resistance to pests and weather.
- Improved efficacy of recombinant drugs (e.g., insulin).
Future Outlook: Strong optimism for growth in biosciences and other sectors.

Production: Created safely and quickly using advanced biotechnology methods.
Composition: Typically giant protein molecules, targeting disease within the body.
Current Focus: Development against heart disease, hepatitis, and cancer.

Importance: Early diagnosis of diseases caused by pathogens.
Challenges: Late diagnosis leads to complications; high pathogen concentration exacerbates issues.
Biotechnology Techniques:
- Recombinant DNA Technology
- ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay)
- PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction): Amplifies disease detection before symptoms appear.

Role of Biotechnology: Supports exploration of growing stem cells in lab settings (in vitro).
Potential Benefits: Implanting stem cells may restore health for patients with various disorders.
Mechanism: Stem cells can divide and become different cell types; biotechnologists can guide this process.

Definition: Treatment for genetic disorders through normal gene insertion.
Process: Uses vectors (e.g., retroviruses, adenoviruses) to deliver genes into patients.
Effectiveness: Best potential for a permanent cure when started early in infancy.