Biotechnology

We hear the term biotechnology a lot nowadays. Whether in a newspaper article, a television news documentary or the subject of a big screen movie; it seems that biotechnology is all around us. But what exactly is biotechnology? It is often difficult to define simply because it encompasses a vast array of complicated processes and techniques. A sufficient definition, albeit simple, is using living organisms to produce products and to solve problems. Current biotechnological advances include drug production, genetically engineered crops, forensic sciences, and disease research and treatment.

Although the term biotechnology was not used until the beginning of the twentieth century, the techniques employed in biotechnology have been utilized since civilization began. Archaeological studies reveal how inhabitants used selection practices to cultivate larger and hardier crops and to breed domesticated animals for desirable traits. These studies also revealed the early use of modified foods, including fermented dough that produced a light and more palatable bread and fermented drinks used during various festivities. The inhabitants of these early civilizations were adept enough to develop these ancient biotechnology practices despite an inability to understand the science behind these practices.

Modern biotechnology has sought to provide the reasoning behind these biotechnology practices through experimentation. Although advances in biotechnological research date back as far as the 1600s, the majority of advances have occurred within the last century, most of which have focused on DNA whose structure was determined in the early 1950s.

As Guilford Technical Community College celebrates its 50th anniversary, it is remarkable to think of the great advances that have occurred in biotechnology over the college’s existence. Today, researchers can clone human DNA as well as “cut” and “paste” this DNA into other sources such as microorganisms. This recombinant DNA technology has enabled the rapid production of many important drugs including insulin. These techniques along with the recent completion of the human genome project, have equipped researchers to better study genetic disorders with the hope of providing treatments and cures. Within agriculture, genetically engineered crops have been produced with desirable traits, such as drought and insect resistance, providing a wider cultivation of these crops within the country. The recent FDA approval of cloned meat and dairy products sets the stage for increased milk and beef production. The advent of forensic sciences has enabled researchers to use DNA evidence to convict criminals as well as exonerate those wrongly imprisoned in the past. With all of these advances in biotechnology comes the responsibility to address ethical issues and possible health and environmental effects.

In the meantime, how will biotechnology affect you? In short, it already does through drug research and clinical diagnostics, as well as the food that you place on the table. North Carolina is witnessing a massive emergence of new biotechnology companies and with this will come increased job opportunities in this sector. This is an exciting opportunity for those trained to be part of the new biotechnology advances of the future.

Jameson McCann is an Assistant Professor at GTCC who teaches biotechnology and microbiology. More information about biotechnology and course offerings can be obtained by emailing him at jamccann@gtcc.edu