Exploring Biotechnology
The United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity defines biotechnology as “any technological application that utilizes biological systems, living organisms, or their derivatives to create or modify products or processes for specific purposes.” Additionally, biological resources encompass genetic resources, organisms or their components, populations, or any other living elements of ecosystems with actual or potential value for humanity. India has emerged as the world’s 12th largest biotechnology economy and boasts the second-highest number of USFDA-approved facilities. Biotechnology holds the promise of enabling developing countries to achieve feats previously considered unattainable.
Conventional biotechnology relies on straightforward methods and tools, eschewing genetic manipulation. This age-old practice has been employed for millennia to craft an array of products, including beer, wine, tuak, sake, yogurt, bread, cheese, soy sauce, tempe, tapai, and oncom.
In contrast, modern biotechnology harnesses genetic manipulation techniques to transfer genetic material (genes) from one organism to another. This approach empowers humans to tailor production to their specific needs. For instance, it facilitates the creation of pest and disease-resistant plants, long-lasting fruits, and high-yield milk-producing cattle.
During genetic manipulation, organisms containing foreign genes are termed transgenic organisms. These may encompass transgenic plants, transgenic animals, and transgenic bacteria.