UNIT-1-INTRODUCTION Biotech

Introduction

• Biotechnology Overview

Unit Outline

• Definition of Biotechnology

• History of Biotechnology

• Biotechnology's Relation to Other Scientific Disciplines

• Biotechnology and Plant Breeding

• Importance of Biotechnology

• Status and Development of Biotechnology in the Philippines

• Future Prospects of Biotechnology

Learning Outcomes

• Define biotechnology and its importance in agriculture

• Familiarize with the history of biotechnology

• Relate biotechnology to other sciences

• Understand the current status of biotechnology in the Philippines

What is Biotechnology?

Classical Definition

• Processes using living organisms to create products or perform processes (e.g., industrial fermentations)

Layman's Definition

• A historical perspective starting with agriculture; includes crop planting, animal domestication, fermentation of beverages, and dairy production

Genentech’s Perspective

• Harnesses nature's biochemical tools for new products and societal solutions (G. Kirk Raab, Former Pres. & CEO)

Webster Definition

• Technology relating to living organisms to meet human needs

Wall Street Perspective

• Application of genetic engineering and DNA technology in therapeutic and diagnostic products

Literal Definition

• Biotechnology = Bios (life) + Logos (study)

• Literally the study of tools derived from living things

Broad Definition

• Utilizes scientific methods to produce new organisms or products

• Involves techniques using living substances to modify products, improve organisms, or create microorganisms for specific applications

Multidisciplinary Nature

• Involves inputs from various fields:

  • Engineering

  • Computer Science

  • Cell and Molecular Biology

  • Microbiology

  • Genetics

  • Physiology

  • Biochemistry

  • Immunology

  • Virology

  • Recombinant DNA Technology

Terms to Remember

• DNA: Genetic information storage molecule

• Gene: Biological unit determining inherited characteristics

• Genome: Complete hereditary material in a cell

• Genetic Engineering: Deliberate alteration of genes by humans

• Modern Biotechnology: Involves in vitro nucleic acid technologies and genetic manipulation

• Traits: Characteristics like size or resistance to diseases

• Transgene: Gene artificially inserted into an organism

• GMO: Organism with genetically modified genetic makeup

History of Biotechnology

Ancient Biotechnology (Pre 1800)

• Focused on food and shelter, domestication of plants and animals

Classical Biotechnology (1800 - Mid 20th Century)

• Built on ancient methods, emphasis on fermentation for food and medicine

Modern Biotechnology (20th Century - Present)

• Genetic information manipulation, genetic engineering developments

Ancient Biotechnology Highlights

Prehistoric Society (2.6 million - 12,000 years ago)

• Hunter-gatherers, nomadic due to animals and edible plant distribution

8,500 B.C.

• Settling leads to domestication of plants and animals

• New plant varieties and early agricultural practices begin

1500 B.C. to 4000 B.C.

• Development of bread and wine making, use of fermentation methods in China

Additional Historical Insights

• 1866: Louis Pasteur's discoveries on yeast and fermentation

• 1915: The term "biotechnology" introduced by Karl Ereky

• Advances in genetic engineering terminology and processes from 1928 onwards

Modern Biotechnology Developments

• 1953: Structure of DNA by Watson and Crick

• 1970s: Introduction of recombinant DNA technologies

• 1980s: Commercialization of various GMOs and advances in plant biotech

Status and Development of Biotechnology in the Philippines

Landmark Events

• 1965: Patent for Coenzyme Q-10

• 1979: National Institute of Biotechnology established

• 1986 - 1992: Genetic engineering guidelines formed, safety regulations initiated

Recent Developments

• 1997: Approval of first GM food crop (Bt corn)

• 2000 - 2006: Institutionalization of biotech programs, various field trials and approvals of GM crops

• 2019: Golden Rice approved for use

Biotechnology and Other Scientific Disciplines

Research Interrelation

• Active collaboration between agricultural sciences, emphasizing plant and animal advancements

Key Areas

• Plant Science: Yield improvements through transgenic methods

• Animal Science: Improved breeding techniques and knockout animals

• Environmental Science: Bioremediation using organisms for pollution cleanup

• Health: Development of pharming plants and methods for disease diagnostics

Biotechnology and Plant Breeding

Evolution of Methods

• Traditional vs genetic engineering techniques in plant breeding

Genetic Engineering Benefits

• Direct transfer of specific genes, accelerated improvements in crop development

Importance of Biotechnology

Global Context

• Challenges from food security, climate change, and resource limitations

Contributions

• Enhanced crop resilience, environmental benefits, and medical advancements

Modern Biotechnology Products

Agricultural Innovations

• Crops with added benefits (e.g., disease resistance, nutritional enhancements)

Key Examples

• Golden Rice: Increased vitamin A

• Bt Crops: Insect-resistant varieties

Future Prospects of Biotechnology

• Continued advances in vaccines, genetic editing, and human health applications

• Focus on food security, agricultural applications, and environmental sustainability