1. Biotechnology
is the use of biological systems, such as microorganisms, whole cells or their molecules, to solve problems or to make useful products.

2. Tools of Biotechnology
Bioprocessing technology
Using whole living cells or components of them to manufacture desired products.
Most common whole cells used are yeast and bacteria (one-celled organisms).
Most common components are enzymes (proteins that catalyze chemical reactions).
Microbial fermentation
Cells isolated from animals and plants also are used to produce desired products.

3. Tools of Biotechnology
Genetic engineering
The technique of removing, modifying or adding genes to a DNA molecule to change the information it contains.
Is known more specifically as recombinant DNA (rDNA) technology.
The product of rDNA technology is known as a genetically modified organism, or GMO.
Example: Gene for human insulin inserted into E.coli → bacteria that make human insulin (a biopharmaceutical).

4. Practical Applications of Biotechnology
1. Agricultural applications
Better crops
Improved animal health
2. Medical and health care applications
New tests
New vaccines
New medicines
3. Chemical and environmental applications
Better manufacturing processes
Improved consumer products

5. Practical Applications of Biotechnology
1a. Agricultural applications: improve crops
Improve crop yields by introducing genes that
confer resistance to insects, tolerance
to herbicides and resistance to environmental
stresses (drought, heat, cold).
Create disease- and insect-resistant trees to help meet demand for wood products.

6. Practical Applications of Biotechnology
1b. Agricultural applications: improve animal health
Better detection of disease
More nutritious feed
New and more effective vaccines
Improved treatments for diseases

7. Practical Applications of Biotechnology
2. Medical and health care
applications
New diagnostic tests
Example: new generation of home pregnancy and strep tests
MANY new treatments for diseases and conditions
Examples: diabetes, stroke, anemia, cystic fibrosis, growth deficiency, rheumatoid arthritis, hemophilia, hepatitis, genital warts, transplant rejection, leukemia and other cancers

8. Practical Applications of Biotechnology
3. Chemical and environmental
applications (industrial biotechnology)
Produce enzymes used in laundry detergents
Use genetically modified microorganisms that
break down industrial waste
Develop bio-based, biodegradable plastics
Improve manufacturing that reduces the amount of waste products