Introduction to Biotechnology
Concise notes for students
1. Definition of Biotechnology
Biotechnology is a field of science that uses living organisms, cells, or biological systems to
develop useful products and processes for human benefit. It combines biology with technology to
solve problems in medicine, agriculture, industry, and environmental management.
2. History of Biotechnology
Biotechnology has been practiced for thousands of years. Traditional biotechnology includes the
use of yeast in bread making and fermentation to produce beer, wine, and yogurt. Modern
biotechnology began in the 20th century with the discovery of DNA structure in 1953 and the
development of genetic engineering techniques in the 1970s.
3. Branches of Biotechnology
• Medical (Red) Biotechnology – focuses on healthcare applications such as vaccines,
antibiotics, and gene therapy.
• Agricultural (Green) Biotechnology – involves crop improvement, genetically modified
organisms (GMOs), and pest resistance.
• Industrial (White) Biotechnology – used in manufacturing processes, such as enzymes for
detergents and biofuels.
• Environmental (Grey) Biotechnology – helps in waste management, pollution control, and
bioremediation.
4. Applications of Biotechnology
• Medicine: production of insulin, vaccines, diagnostic kits, and treatment of genetic diseases.
• Agriculture: development of high-yield, drought-resistant, and disease-resistant crops.
• Industry: production of enzymes, biofuels, biodegradable plastics, and food processing.
• Environment: sewage treatment, oil spill cleanup, and waste recycling.
5. Basic Tools Used in Biotechnology
• Microscopes – used to observe cells and microorganisms.
• Centrifuges – separate substances based on density.
• Incubators – provide controlled conditions for cell growth.
• DNA technology tools – enzymes such as restriction enzymes and ligases.
6. Advantages of Biotechnology
• Improves food production and food security.
Concise notes for students
1. Definition of Biotechnology
Biotechnology is a field of science that uses living organisms, cells, or biological systems to
develop useful products and processes for human benefit. It combines biology with technology to
solve problems in medicine, agriculture, industry, and environmental management.
2. History of Biotechnology
Biotechnology has been practiced for thousands of years. Traditional biotechnology includes the
use of yeast in bread making and fermentation to produce beer, wine, and yogurt. Modern
biotechnology began in the 20th century with the discovery of DNA structure in 1953 and the
development of genetic engineering techniques in the 1970s.
3. Branches of Biotechnology
• Medical (Red) Biotechnology – focuses on healthcare applications such as vaccines,
antibiotics, and gene therapy.
• Agricultural (Green) Biotechnology – involves crop improvement, genetically modified
organisms (GMOs), and pest resistance.
• Industrial (White) Biotechnology – used in manufacturing processes, such as enzymes for
detergents and biofuels.
• Environmental (Grey) Biotechnology – helps in waste management, pollution control, and
bioremediation.
4. Applications of Biotechnology
• Medicine: production of insulin, vaccines, diagnostic kits, and treatment of genetic diseases.
• Agriculture: development of high-yield, drought-resistant, and disease-resistant crops.
• Industry: production of enzymes, biofuels, biodegradable plastics, and food processing.
• Environment: sewage treatment, oil spill cleanup, and waste recycling.
5. Basic Tools Used in Biotechnology
• Microscopes – used to observe cells and microorganisms.
• Centrifuges – separate substances based on density.
• Incubators – provide controlled conditions for cell growth.
• DNA technology tools – enzymes such as restriction enzymes and ligases.
6. Advantages of Biotechnology
• Improves food production and food security.
