Biotechnology refers to a wide range techniques that use living organisms like bacteria and yeast to make a variety a products. These products can be used to accomplish many purposes. Some are used as food supplements and others are used for drugs, cosmetics, and for research purposes.
Biotech innovations are often a result of research by academic institutions, which are often responsible for introducing new technologies. Products are often designed to improve human health and the environment. They may include novel tools, such as metabolic engineering and new enzymes. They can also include genetic modifications, which alter the genetic makeup of a particular gene. These changes can be used in order to enhance the efficacy of a drug or for the treatment of a condition.
Universities often introduce new technologies into the industrial sector. One example is a new enzyme, which can be used for breaking down artificial surfactants. You can also find tissue engineering which involves growing cells to create tissue for implantation and gene therapy which replaces a damaged gene with a healthier one.
Biotech innovations are also used in production of potent vaccines, and the manufacture of tolerant plants and novel pharmaceuticals. These products are often directed at antibiotic-resistant bacteria and are used in other emerging applications.
New products have been created by mapping the genetic blueprints for plants, animals, humans in recent years. This includes the creation of genetically engineered food products such as seedless watermelon. Some of these products use new technologies such Marker Assisted Selection.
Biotech innovations also include the production and use of algae-based biofuels. Algae are relatively versatile plants, which can be grown anywhere. The biomass can be used to produce oil, biodiesel, or used for 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 innovation is also used in the manufacture of personal monitoring devices, which are intended to assist patients with better managing their diseases. They can monitor the level of different elements within the body. Some products are also designed to monitor the environment around food. These products can be used to produce foods that are more suited to local conditions.
Biotech innovations also include the development of biodegradable materials. People are seeking alternatives as they become more concerned about their dependence on oil. This is especially true of China, which is suffering severe air pollution. Therefore, it is imperative to make urgent changes in the supply of energy. Although there is a need for new sources of power, it must be done in an environmentally friendly manner.
China has a wide variety of biotech innovation. The development of mRNA vaccins, which target resistant bacteria, is one example. Other products are in preclinical stages. They are being created for Parkinson's Disease and other diseases.