What is biotechnology?
Biotechnology is the use of living organisms, or substances made by them, to produce useful products or carry out useful processes for humans. It ranges from ancient, traditional methods to modern techniques based on genetic engineering. It is applied in medicine, food, agriculture, industry and the environment, and it has become one of the fastest-growing areas of modern science. Biotechnology can be divided broadly into traditional methods and modern methods.
Traditional biotechnology
Traditional biotechnology uses whole microorganisms, especially in fermentation. Yeast is used to make bread rise and to brew alcohol, while bacteria are used to turn milk into yoghurt and cheese. These methods have been used for thousands of years without knowing the science behind them.
Example
In making yoghurt, Lactobacillus bacteria ferment the sugar (lactose) in milk into lactic acid. The acid thickens the milk and gives yoghurt its sour taste — a classic use of biotechnology in food.
Modern biotechnology
Modern biotechnology uses advanced techniques such as recombinant DNA technology, tissue culture, monoclonal antibody production and gene therapy. Examples include making human insulin and vaccines in bacteria, growing identical plants by tissue culture, and treating genetic diseases by gene therapy. In agriculture, modern biotechnology creates crops that resist pests, tolerate drought or contain extra nutrients, while in medicine monoclonal antibodies are used to diagnose diseases and target specific cells during treatment.
Key idea
Traditional biotechnology: whole microorganisms and fermentation (bread, yoghurt, cheese). Modern biotechnology: genetic engineering, tissue culture, vaccines, monoclonal antibodies, gene therapy.
Benefits and issues
Biotechnology brings better medicines, higher crop yields and useful industrial products. However, it also raises concerns about safety, ethics and the possible misuse of powerful technology, so its use must be carefully regulated.
Remember
Fermentation is the key process in traditional biotechnology; genetic engineering is the key process in modern biotechnology.