Biotechnology What is it?

Intro to Biotech First need to understand where technology comes from…. Probably first developed when humans picked up sticks and stones to use as tools Imagine the most complicated computer – very simple compared to the operation of the body of a mammal or the functions all the systems of a corn plant

Bio Tech Gregor Mendel – 1800’s developed the first theory of gene transfer Gregor Mendel – 1800’s developed the first theory of gene transfer Biotechnology – manipulation of living organisms or parts of organisms to make products useful to humans Biotechnology – manipulation of living organisms or parts of organisms to make products useful to humans

Bio tech Continued Genetically Manipulating Organisms – alter behavior, characteristics, or value One reason for slowness in Biotech research – scientists use living organisms that can grow and reproduce

Need for Biotechnology  Feed people (6 Billion in the world by 2050 could be over 10 billion)  Genetically improve plants and animals

Current uses Transgenic crops – inserted or moved DNA – can withstand disease, pests, climate Transgenic crops – inserted or moved DNA – can withstand disease, pests, climate Animal Science – cloning, improving genetics – more production Animal Science – cloning, improving genetics – more production Medicine – Gene Therapy – used to treat and cure genetic disorders – plants can be developed to contain vaccines Medicine – Gene Therapy – used to treat and cure genetic disorders – plants can be developed to contain vaccines

Current Uses Cont Medicine Cont – Genetic mapping – tell if someone has inherited a genetically transferred disease Environment – Bioremediation – using plants and other organisms to clean up environment