Biotechnology Describes the use of living things and

Biotechnology � Describes the use of living things and biological systems and processes for human benefit. Another way to say this is: “biotechnology manipulates living things to develop useful products or ways to solve problems” � The term is quite new but we have been undertaking biotechnology for a long time.

Biotechnology New biotechnology uses gene technology or genetic modification. � Gene technology allows scientists to manipulate the outcomes of normal functioning genes to meet the needs of society.

Gene technology Manipulating genetic material � alter DNA to suppress or enhance its activity � Combine genetic material from different genes � Why are we modifying DNA? How can we modify DNA? What are the applications?

Gene manipulation There a number of techniques: � Cut and recombine with another piece of DNA � Amplify DNA (copying a sequence) � Visualise and sort DNA fragments � Probe for particular genes � DNA sequencing

Cutting and pasting DNA � Isolate a section of DNA and then insert it into the DNA of a different organism � To cut – use Restriction Enzymes

Cutting and pasting DNA � To recombine DNA – DNA ligases

Recombinant DNA � What can we use this for? � Insulin production for Type 1 diabetic patients. ◦ Lack of insulin ◦ Can only be treated with injections of insulin ◦ In the past insulin was taken from the pancreases of cows and pigs and purified for human use. ◦ Now use bacteria and genetic engineering

Recombinant DNA for insulin