Microorganisms and biotechnology

Define biotechnology

Process of applying biological organisms or enzymes to the synthesis, breakdown or transformation of materials in the service of people

Why are microorganisms often used in biotechnological processes?

Can be genetically engineered easier, grow rapidly and have short life cycle (short generation time), can produce lots of product which is often easy to seperate, big range of microorganisms to synthesise different chemicals

Why are microorganisms often used in biotechnological processes? (2)

Can grow microorganisms in small areas, can be cultured anywhere in the world, can be grown on inexpensive materials and provide their own catalysts, need low temps, no welfare issues

How can microorganisms indirectly produce food?

By acting on another type of food

How can microorganisms directly produce food?

Eat the microrganism

What are immobilised enzymes?

Fixing enzymes or cells in position so they can still carry out their function but are not free to move

Why are immobilised enzymes more active?

Less easily denatured, tertiary structure supported, part of enzyme not exposed to pH

Why are immobilised enzymes cheaper than using free enzymes?

Recycled, extraction of enzyme not needed, can be run over wider temps

What is disadvantages of using immobilised enzymes?

Higher costs

How can enzymes be immobilised?

Adsorption, entrapment, membrane separation