09 Applications of Biotechnology Free Online FlashCards

What is biotechnology?

Biotechnology applies living organisms, cells, or biological molecules to solve practical problems.

How can recombinant DNA technology help produce insulin?

Recombinant DNA technology enables microorganisms or cultured cells to produce therapeutic proteins, including insulin.

What traits can agricultural biotechnology modify?

Genetic engineering and genome editing can introduce or modify crop and animal traits, such as insect resistance, disease resistance, or improved nutritional qualities.

What do microorganisms do during industrial fermentation?

In fermentation, microorganisms convert raw materials into products such as organic acids, alcohols, enzymes, and other useful chemicals.

What is bioremediation?

Bioremediation uses microorganisms to break down or transform contaminants in soil, groundwater, or other materials.

How can forensic DNA profiles be used?

Forensic laboratories use DNA profiles to compare biological evidence with reference samples, associate evidence from separate cases, or identify unknown human remains.

What should be assessed for each new agricultural variety?

Each new variety should be assessed for its intended traits and potential effects on health and the environment; outcomes depend on the organism and its use.

What is a possible advantage—and qualification—of biological catalysts?

Biological catalysts can work selectively under relatively mild conditions, but environmental and economic benefits depend on the process and its inputs.

What can a DNA match establish—and what can it not establish alone?

A DNA match is evaluated statistically and alongside circumstances and other evidence; it does not by itself show how or when DNA was deposited.

What can DNA- or RNA-based diagnostic tests detect?

Diagnostic tests can detect specific DNA or RNA sequences to help identify infections or genetic changes associated with disease.

How may gene therapy treat some conditions?

Gene therapy may add genetic material or alter DNA in a patient’s cells to treat some conditions; its safety and effectiveness require careful evaluation.

What is a possible effect of engineering insect resistance in a crop?

A crop engineered to resist certain insect pests may suffer less insect damage.