What is Biotechnology? Discuss the use of genetically modified microbes to make new products.

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Chris Holland         Dr Sarah Gurr 12/12/2000

Jesus College

What is Biotechnology?  Discuss the use of genetically modified microbes to make new products.

Biotechnology involves using the biological processes of microbes, and of plant and animals, for the benefit of mankind. It has been around for thousands of years, ever since man started manipulating the environment in which he was situated. Essentially it is a method of enhancing an organism, making it more suitable for the job intended, by incorporating desirable traits. For example selective breeding in cattle, in order to produce a higher yield of milk. It is important to note though that the organism doesn’t benefit from this modification.

The molecular evolution that Biology has witnessed has found its heart in biotechnology. “Blue Skies” research is a thing of the past and advancements in Biology all stem from research grants with the promise of a commercial application at the end of the day. The discovery of the mechanisms behind protein synthesis has lead to a much more precise, predictable and faster method of incorporating desirable traits into organisms. Thus the revolution of genetic engineering came about. This is arguably the future of biotechnology, as it allows traits from different species to be combined, thus pooling nature’s resources.

As you can see the potential for biotechnology as a tool is huge. It is not only able to provide products such as alcohol in the brewing industry, but services also such as cleaning up oil spills, where the process is more important than the product. Thus the benefits are great and widespread across all aspects of life:

Environmental. Discoveries in biotechnology allow for certain key crops to have their own protection against insects and disease, meaning a reduction in the amount of chemicals used to protect them. Thus reducing the strain on the environment via the application and creation of these products.

Agricultural. The ability to enhance crops so that better quality and more can be grown on the same patch of land. This means that the amount of food available to the world will increase and that the higher levels of nutrients in it will reduce the incidence of disease.

Pharmaceutical. Perhaps one of the most important uses of biotechnology can be seen in healthcare. Complex drugs like insulin and penicillin can now be mass-produced, saving thousands of lives. And the development of new drugs and vaccines will benefit others in the future.

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Industrial. The industrial applications of biotechnology are huge. It has found a home in all aspects of industry, from production of non-polluting fuel, new washing powders and biosensors, to the extraction of metal ions in the mining industry.

It is important though to consider what kinds of organisms are used in biotechnology. Obviously organisms that we consume are used, e.g. cattle, but biotechnology would be an extremely limited science if it were not for microbes. Microbes include organisms such as Fungi, Bacteria and Viruses. They not only provide the foundation for much of the basic research involved ...

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