INTRODUCTION TO
BIOTECHNOLOGY
PREPARED BY MR. ABHIJIT DAS
BIOTECHNOLOGY:
Biotechnology is a field of science that involves
the use of living organisms, cells, and biological systems to develop various products.
It uses a wide range of techniques for purposes such as medicine, agriculture,
and industry.
APPLICATIONS:
1.
Cell Culture:
Biotechnology plays a crucial role in cell culture, where cells are grown and
maintained outside their natural environment. This technique is essential for
studying cell behavior, drug development, and the production of various
biological products.
2.
CRISPR Technology:
Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR) technology
allows precise editing of genes in organisms. It helps genetic engineering,
enabling scientists to modify DNA sequences, study gene functions, and
potentially treat genetic disorders.
3.
Production of Hormones like
Insulin: Biotechnology is used in the production of hormones
through genetic engineering. For example, insulin, a hormone crucial for
regulating blood sugar levels, can be produced by genetically modified bacteria
or yeast. This helps diabetes treatment.
4.
Production of Medicines:
Biotechnology is widely used in the production of various medicines, including
vaccines, antibiotics, and therapeutic proteins. Recombinant DNA technology
allows the creation of genetically modified organisms that can produce specific
therapeutic compounds efficiently.