Biotechnology refers to a wide range techniques that use living organisms like bacteria and yeast to make a variety a products. They can be used for many different purposes. Some are used as food supplements and others are used for drugs, cosmetics, and for research purposes.
Many biotech innovations result from research done by universities, which often have the responsibility for inventing new technologies. The products often have the goal of improving health and the environment. Many products include novel enzymes and metabolic engineering. They can also include genetic modifications, which alter the genetic makeup of a particular gene. These can be used to increase the effectiveness of a drug or to treat a disease.
New technologies are often developed by academic groups. One example is a new enzyme, which can be used for breaking down artificial surfactants. There are also tissue engineering and gene therapy. These involve replacing a damaged gene by a healthy one.
Biotech innovation is also used to produce potent vaccines and create tolerant plants as well as novel pharmaceuticals. These products are often directed at antibiotic-resistant bacteria and are used in other emerging applications.
Over the past few years, new products were created by mapping out the genetic blueprints from plants, animals, as well as humans. This includes genetically engineered food products (e.g., seedless watermelon). Some of these products use new technologies such Marker Assisted Selection.
Biotech innovations include the production biofuels from algae. Algae can be grown almost anywhere. The biomass can then be used to produce biodiesel, oil, or food supplements. Research into the production of pharmaceuticals also involves algae. This research has led to the development of substances that can help combat AIDS and cancer.
Biotech innovations are also applied in the production of personal monitoring kits, which are designed to help patients better manage diseases. They can monitor the level of different elements within the body. Some products can also be used to monitor the environmental conditions around food. These products can be used for foods that are more suitable to local conditions.
Another example is the development biodegradable items. With growing concerns about oil dependence, people are looking for alternatives. This is especially true for China, which is suffering from severe air pollution. As a result, urgent changes are needed in the energy supply. There is a need to develop new sources of energy, but the process of creating them must be environmentally friendly.
A wide range of biotech innovations are underway in China. The development of mRNA vaccins, which target resistant bacteria, is one example. Other products are in preclinical stages. They may be used in the fight against leukaemia and Parkinson's disease.