Biotechnology

What is biotechnology?

Bio—the use of biological

(life) processesTechnology—solve

problems or make

useful products

10

What does biotechnology produce?

Foods Vaccines Antibiotics Vitamins BiodegradationSelective breeding

9

How does biotechnology work?

Manipulating an organism’s genome to alter microbes, plants, and animals for

our benefitcorrect genetic defects in humans

8

Classical Plant Breeding:Classical Plant Breeding:

Genetic modification following introduction of large amounts of undefined DNA from a genetically similar source.

Genetic modification following introduction of large amounts of undefined DNA from a genetically similar source.

Plant Biotechnology:Plant Biotechnology:

Genetic modification of a plant cell by introduction of defined DNA(s) from a genetically different source.

Genetic modification of a plant cell by introduction of defined DNA(s) from a genetically different source.

7

Benefits Agricultural Biotechnology

Increase yieldEnhance nutritional valueEnvironmentally friendly pesticide

Bio-medical devicesReconstructive surgery

Bone, cartilage, skin grafts

Forest BiotechnologyGrow more woodConserve landFight a changing climate

6

Recombinant DNA

Combining DNA from two different organisms

5

Useful Properties of DNA

Restriction enzyme (endonucleases) can cut DNA at specific sites, leaving sticky ends for insertion of new DNA

4

3

Difficulties in Genetically Engineering Humans

Inserting gene in correct cellsInserting gene so it is expressed

correctly Orientation Regulation

Controlling virus vectorEthical issues

2

Other Issues

How will genetically engineered organisms affect environment?

Spread of genes to other organisms?

Who will decide?

1

0