Biotechnology

What is biotechnology?  Bio—the use of biological (life) processes  Technology—solve problems or make useful products 10

What does biotechnology produce?  Foods  Vaccines  Antibiotics  Vitamins  Biodegradation  Selective breeding 9

How does biotechnology work?  Manipulating an organism’s genome to  alter microbes, plants, and animals for our benefit  correct genetic defects in humans 8

Classical Plant Breeding : Genetic modification following introduction of large amounts of undefined DNA from a genetically similar source. Plant Biotechnology : Genetic modification of a plant cell by introduction of defined DNA(s) from a genetically different source. 7

Benefits  Agricultural Biotechnology  Increase yield  Enhance nutritional value  Environmentally friendly pesticide  Bio-medical devices  Reconstructive surgery  Bone, cartilage, skin grafts  Forest Biotechnology  Grow more wood  Conserve land  Fight a changing climate 6

Recombinant DNA  Combining DNA from two different organisms 5

Useful Properties of DNA  Restriction enzyme (endonucleases) can cut DNA at specific sites, leaving sticky ends for insertion of new DNA 4

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Difficulties in Genetically Engineering Humans  Inserting gene in correct cells  Inserting gene so it is expressed correctly  Orientation  Regulation  Controlling virus vector  Ethical issues 2

Other Issues  How will genetically engineered organisms affect environment?  Spread of genes to other organisms?  Who will decide? 1

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