Insights about

BIOTECHNOLOGY

Submitted by:
Kwin P. Rey
Grade 8- STEC

Submitted to:
Sarah Christine L. Mirafuentes
Biotech Teacher
What is Biotechnology?
Biotechnology is a very new topic for STE students. But here are some insights about
this subject. Biotechnology derives from the Greek words; Bios, meaning life, technos, meaning
technology, and logos, language.
It is a field of science that involves using living organisms, cells, and biological systems
to develop and create products, processes, and technologies that provide practical benefits to
various industries and sectors. It harnesses the principles of biology, chemistry, genetics, and
other disciplines to manipulate and utilize biological systems for specific purposes.

What is the importance of biotechnology?

Biotechnology holds great importance across various sectors due to its potential to
address critical challenges, improve human well-being, and drive scientific and technological
advancements.

Examples of Biotechnology
Genetic engineering:
Also called genetic modification or genetic manipulation, is the modification and
manipulation of an organism's genes using technology.It works by modifying or interacting with
the genetic cell structures. Every cell in an animal or plant contains genes that produce proteins.
Modern animal biotechnology is based on genetic engineering. Genetic engineering is a
modification of an organism's characteristics by adjusting its genetic characteristics. The
techniques of genetic engineering such as recombinant DNA technology, gene cloning, etc.
overcome this problem, allowing us to introduce only desired genes.
Agricultural Biotechnology:
Also known as agritech, is an area of agricultural science involving the use of scientific
tools and techniques, including genetic engineering, molecular markers, molecular diagnostics,
vaccines, and tissue culture, to modify living organisms: plants, animals, and microorganisms. It
focuses on developing genetically modified plants to increase crop yields.
DNA Cloning:
It is a molecular biology technique used to create identical copies of a specific DNA
fragment, such as a gene or a sequence of interest. The process involves inserting the DNA
fragment into a vector, which is typically a small, circular piece of DNA, such as a plasmid, that
can replicate independently within a host cell. The host cell, often a bacterium or yeast, is then
used to replicate and produce multiple copies of the inserted DNA fragment.
These examples showcase the diverse world within biotechnology, spanning within
healthcare, agriculture, environmental management, and more. Biotechnology continues to
advance, opening up new possibilities for addressing global challenges and improving various
aspects of our lives.