17. Biotechnology - Students Free Notes

What is the role of biotechnology in environmental conservation? Explain with examples.

Biotechnology plays a significant role in environmental conservation by offering innovative solutions to address environmental challenges and promote sustainability. Key areas where biotechnology contributes include: Bioremediation: This is the use of living organisms, such as bacteria, fungi, or plants, to remove, degrade, or neutralize pollutants from the environment. For example, bacteria can be used to … Read more

Describe the process of cloning. What are its potential benefits and risks?

Cloning is the process of creating a genetically identical copy of an organism or cell. There are two main types of cloning: Reproductive Cloning: The creation of an organism that is genetically identical to another. This is typically done using somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT), where the nucleus of a somatic cell (a cell from … Read more

What are genetically modified organisms (GMOs)? Explain their advantages and disadvantages.

Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) are organisms whose genetic material has been altered through genetic engineering techniques to introduce new traits or characteristics that do not occur naturally. This can involve altering the DNA of plants, animals, or microorganisms to enhance specific traits, such as resistance to pests, improved nutritional content, or increased productivity. Advantages of … Read more

Why are bacteria commonly used in biotechnology?

Bacteria are commonly used in biotechnology because they reproduce rapidly, are easy to manipulate genetically, and can produce a wide variety of substances, including proteins, enzymes, and antibiotics. Related Questions: How is insulin produced using biotechnology? Name the organism used in fermentation for making bread, alcohol, cheese, and yogurt. Name the medical products produced by … Read more

Define recombinant DNA and give one example of its application.

Recombinant DNA is DNA that has been artificially formed by combining genetic material from different sources. An example of its application is the production of human insulin in bacteria for the treatment of diabetes. Related Questions: Name the organism used in fermentation for making bread, alcohol, cheese, and yogurt. Name the medical products produced by … Read more

What are two advantages of using microbes in industrial processes?

Microbes can produce enzymes and chemicals efficiently and at low costs. They can also be genetically engineered to produce products that are difficult or expensive to obtain from other sources. Related Questions: Name the organism used in fermentation for making bread, alcohol, cheese, and yogurt. Name the medical products produced by large-scale fermentation. How has … Read more

How is insulin produced using biotechnology?

Insulin is produced using biotechnology by inserting the human insulin gene into a plasmid, which is then introduced into bacteria (such as E. coli). The bacteria produce insulin as they grow, and it is then purified for medical use. Related Questions: Why are bacteria commonly used in biotechnology? Name the organism used in fermentation for … Read more

What are restriction enzymes, and why are they important in genetic engineering?

Restriction enzymes are proteins that cut DNA at specific sequences. They are crucial in genetic engineering because they allow scientists to cut and manipulate DNA in a precise manner, facilitating the insertion of foreign genes into organisms. Related Questions: Name the organism used in fermentation for making bread, alcohol, cheese, and yogurt. Name the medical … Read more

What is single-cell protein? Write its importance and significance as animal and human food.

Single-cell protein (SCP) refers to protein-rich biomass derived from microorganisms like yeast, bacteria, algae, and fungi. It is used as a food source or feed supplement. Importance and Significance: Sustainability: SCP can be produced using non-arable land, using waste materials like agricultural residues, making it an eco-friendly and sustainable source of protein. Nutritional Value: SCP … Read more

What are the objectives of genetic engineering? How is a gene transplanted?

Objectives of Genetic Engineering: Improved Crop Varieties: Genetic engineering allows for the development of crops with enhanced traits like drought resistance, pest resistance, and improved nutritional content (e.g., Golden Rice with increased vitamin A). Medical Advances: It can be used to produce recombinant proteins, vaccines, and hormones (e.g., insulin production in bacteria). Industrial Applications: Genetic … Read more