Biotechnology

Definition

Biotechnology is the application of biological systems or organisms to create products or processes for specific uses, often benefiting human health and the environment. It integrates principles from biology, chemistry, and engineering to develop technologies in areas such as medicine, agriculture, and environmental management.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Recombinant DNA technology allows scientists to insert genes from one organism into another.
2. CRISPR-Cas9 is a powerful tool for precise genetic editing in biotechnology.
3. Microorganisms like bacteria and archaea are often used in biotechnological applications due to their rapid growth and ability to produce valuable substances.
4. Bioremediation uses prokaryotes to clean up pollutants or toxic waste from the environment.
5. In biotechnology, plasmids are commonly used vectors for transferring genetic material between cells.

Review Questions

• What is recombinant DNA technology and how is it used in biotechnology?
• How do CRISPR-Cas9 systems contribute to genetic engineering?
• What role do prokaryotes play in bioremediation?

Related terms

RecombinantDNA: A form of artificial DNA that is created by combining two or more sequences that would not normally occur together.

CRISPRCas9: A genome editing tool that allows researchers to easily alter DNA sequences and modify gene function.

Plasmid: A small, circular piece of DNA found in bacteria that can replicate independently of chromosomal DNA and is often used as a vector in genetic engineering.