Introduction to Biotechnology

Biotechnology is a multidisciplinary field that encompasses several specialized areas of study and research.

Genetic engineering focuses on manipulating genes to alter an organism's traits, creating new products, and improving existing ones.

Agricultural biotechnology applies biotechnological tools to enhance crop yields, improve nutrition, and create pest-resistant plants.

Medical biotechnology focuses on developing treatments and diagnostics for diseases, using techniques like gene therapy, antibody engineering, and drug discovery.

Industrial biotechnology leverages microorganisms, enzymes, and cells for large-scale production of chemicals, biofuels, and other materials.

A field of study focusing on the structure and number of chromosomes in humans and animals. It examines the genetic makeup of cells and how chromosomes relate to genetic disorders.

Cytogenetics focuses on analyzing chromosomes, which are the structures carrying genetic information within cells.

Cytogenetics helps to understand how changes in chromosome structure or number can lead to genetic disorders.

Techniques used in cytogenetics include microscopy, karyotyping, and molecular techniques to analyze chromosomes.

Cytogenetics is a dynamic field, constantly evolving with new discoveries and technologies.

The study of genes and heredity.

Focuses on the study of individual genes and their functions.

Deals with the genetic makeup of populations and how gene frequencies change over time.

Applies genetic principles to improve crops and livestock.

Investigates the genetic basis of diseases and develops treatments.

Computers are used to collect, organize, and examine biological and genetic data.

Storing genetic information allows scientists to easily access and compare DNA sequences.

Analyzing genetic data helps scientists understand the functions of genes and identify disease-causing mutations.

Combining different types of biological information gives a broader picture of the organism.

Bioinformatics helps researchers develop new drugs by targeting specific genes or proteins.

The use of living organisms or their components to create products or processes that benefit humans.

The field that focuses on the development and use of microorganisms (like bacteria and fungi) for industrial purposes.

A type of biotechnology that utilizes biological processes to create energy sources like biofuels (ethanol).

A field of biotechnology that focuses on using biological systems to produce valuable chemicals and materials.

The field of molecular genetics focuses on studying the structure and function of nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) at the molecular level. This knowledge allows scientists to manipulate and utilize genetic material for various biotechnology applications.

PCR, or polymerase chain reaction, is a powerful technique used to amplify specific DNA sequences. It allows scientists to make countless copies of a gene from a small sample, for research and diagnostics.

Phylogenetic analysis uses DNA sequences to study evolutionary relationships between species. It helps understand how organisms are related and how they have changed over time.

Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are plants or animals whose genetic material has been altered through genetic engineering. This allows for introducing new traits like disease resistance or increased yields, but raises ethical considerations.

Genetic engineering involves directly manipulating an organism's genes. This can be used to create new traits, cure diseases, and even produce biofuels, but raises ethical questions about controlling life.