1. Applications of Biology

2. Epidemiology The study of how diseases spread
Knowing the pathogens that cause diseases help scientists greatly
Research has led to treatments and cures of many diseases
Pathogens are the things that cause disease
New fields of science have emerged because of the research to help treat/cure diseases

3. Benefits of Research We now have vaccinations
The field of genetics also helps us fight diseases caused by abnormalities in genes
New technologies are emerging to help humans live longer, better, healthier lives
Weakened or dead forms of pathogens that induce immune reactions in humans
Genetics is the study of heredity and how genes are passed to offspring
Assistive technologies such as bionic limbs & computer interfaces help disabled people do everyday tasks
Battlefield medicine has led to remote surgery (surgery from another location) & products designed for use in battle (these products may be used in hospitals in the future)

4. Biotechnology Around Us
Refers to newly developed materials/techniques relating to living things
Genetic engineering is one of the most common types
Genetically modified (GM) crops produce higher yields, or are resistant to pests
GE—technology in which the genome of a living cell is changed (medicinal or industrial use)
GM foods allow farmers to get more while using less pesticides/spending less money (Bt corn, GM tomatoes)

5. Applications of Biological Research
Research in other organisms can lead to new treatment methods for humans
Used to make vaccines & medical products
Nanotechnology—science of creating products by changing individual atoms/molecules
Biomolecular materials come from how living organisms work
Biomimetics—application of biological processes & systems to solve design & engineering problems
Alcohol effects in fruit flies may lead to treatments for alcoholism in humans
Insulin produced in bacteria instead of taken from pigs and cows
Nano—used for time-release medicines; may be used to repair damaged body tissue (brain cells & biodegradable template)
Biomolecular materials—ceramics & clam shells, glue & bacteria clinging to rocks, spider silk & lightweight fabric
Biomimetics—hook-and-loop fasteners (Velcro), telescopes based on lobster eyes

6. Applications of Biological Research, cont.
Many tools and methods developed for one purpose have been adapted for other uses
CAT scans were developed for use by doctors for medical issues
Now used to help scientists create 3D models of fossils and living organisms
Scientists can study specimens without dissecting them (helps preserve life)

7. Biology, Forensics, & Public Safety
Biometrics—use of biological traits to determine identity
Used by public safety officials
Used to detect & prevent use of biological agents
Fingerprints & DNA fingerprinting, iris scans, computer programs to tell differences between human faces, analyze brain waves, & speech patterns
Biological warfare a threat since 9/11; helps scientists create vaccines & antibiotic treatments for victims of anthrax or other biological weapons

8. Ethics of Biotechnology
Its use raises ethical concerns that must be addressed
Worries that genetic engineering harms the environment or human health
Some feel limiting research that might save lives/cure diseases is unethical
Some feel databases of biological information is an invasion of property, & that they could be used improperly
GM foods and human health

9. Biology & the Environment
Ecology & environmental science help us understand, value, & protect the environment
Environment provides natural resources vital to humans & all other organisms
Research allows for protection of areas & finds ways for Earth’s resources to continue to meet human needs
Vital resources—food, water, & energy sources

10. Technology in Environmental Science
Satellite tagging of animals helps scientists plan conservation strategies
GIS allow scientists to compare data from many sources & different kinds of data
Can show how different factors affect movement of animals
Genetic tools allow scientists to track down people killing endangered animals
Geographic information systems
DNA samples used to study endangered animals if they become extinct; DNA could be used to clone extinct animals

11. Citizen Scientists
Contribute valuable data for developing solutions to environmental problems
Help with research & conservation through clubs
Clubs provide hands-on activities for students which help them learn and protect environment