6/23/2011

What is Biotechnology?
MBB 1 June 21, 2011

Biotechnology
Is

any biology-based technology which uses living organisms or their parts to produce useful commodities and products that can help humans

6/23/2011

Traditional Biotechnology

Based on empirical use rather than theoretical knowledge Ancient techniques that harness the potential of processes performed by living organisms Uses techniques such as crossbreeding, fermentation, and enzymatic treatments to produce desired changes in plants, animals, and foods Processes experimental and not really controlled

Modern Biotechnology

Based on increasing theoretical knowledge and increasingly controlled applications Number of techniques that involve the intentional manipulation of genes, cells and living tissue in a predictable and controlled manner to generate changes in the genetic make-up of an organism 1953 discovery of the DNA structure

6/23/2011

Biotechnology
Traditional

genetic changes carried out at the organism level (crossbreeding) Modern achieving desired traits is done at the gene level (genetic engineering)