Introduction to

Biotechnology

Beginning Biotech

Part one

What is Biotechnology?

bio = lifetechnos = toolsology = study of

The study of living organisms and their parts for use as tools.

What is Biotechnology?

•Biotechnology is the study and manipulation of living things or their component molecules, cells, tissues, or organs.

NOTE: it’s not just DNA and it’s been around a really, really long time!

Biotechnology—FOOD

• yogurt

• cheese

• bread

• wine

• beer

• All made using

living organisms!!

Biotechnology—FOOD

CHEESE!!!

It’s not just for headwear anymore!!!

Living organism/part?enzyme from calf stomachsWhat IS an enzyme?A type of protein that enables or speeds up a chemical reaction

Biotechnology—FOOD

YOGURT!!

Living organism/part?bacteriaProcess?Cellular respirationProduct?Lactic acid

Biotechnology—FOOD

BREAD, BEER, WINE!!

Living organism/part?yeastProcess?Cellular respirationProduct?

Alcohol & CO2

Traditional Agriculture

•ALL of today’s crops, livestock, and pets came from wild ancestors that were selectively bred for particular traits

Modern Agriculture

Using selected genes from a wide variety of organisms, crops and livestock can be genetically modified for• Increased yield

• Increased nutrition

• Decreased use of fertilizers and pesticides

• Increased disease/pest resistance

Papaya infected with ringspot fungus (left), virus-resistant (right)

Golden rice

Genetic Testing

Determine your DNA sequence to predict genetic traits you might possess or pass to your children.

Gene Therapy

• Changing your genes to eliminate a genetic disorder

Pharmacogenomics

• Prescribing medication based on your DNA sequence (personalized medicine)

Drug Production and Discovery

• Genetically-engineered bacteria produce human insulin

• Enzyme produced to treat the symptoms of cystic fibrosis

Bioremediation

•Using living organisms to remove toxins from soil, to clean up oil spills, etc.

Biofuels

•Using living organisms to produce ethanol, hydrogen, etc. for use as fuels

Feedstocks

•Using living organisms instead of petroleum to create plastics and other chemicals

= bio-derived chemicals