Although the term sounds contemporary, biotechnology is not new. Over 9,000 years ago, people discovered that microorganisms could be used to make bread, brew alcohol, and produce cheese. Although this process of fermentation was not thoroughly understood at the time, its use still constitutes a traditional application of biotechnology.

What is new, however, is the extent of applications and sophistication of biotechnology techniques currently employed. Researchers can manipulate living organisms and transfer genetic material between organisms. Genetic engineering, the specific modification or transfer of genetic material, underlies modern biotechnological innovation

These current applications of biotechnology are predominantly practiced in the fields of agriculture and medicine. Modern techniques allow for the production of new and improved foods. Virus resistant crop plants and animals have been developed and advances in insect resistance have been made. Biotechnology applications in the field of medicine have resulted in new antibiotics, vaccines for malaria, and improved ways of producing insulin. Diagnostic tests for detecting serious diseases such as hereditary cancers and Huntington's chorea have been developed as well as ways of detecting and treating AIDS.

Biotechnology is also being applied in the areas of pollution control, mining and energy production. Genetically engineered microorganisms and plants are used to clean up toxic wastes from industrial production and oil spills. Biotechnology applications have also been introduced into the forestry and aquaculture industries. These strategies offer hope for conservation biologists. Genetic methods can be used to identify particular populations of endangered species. Thanks to biotechnology, minute traces of animal or plant remains can be used to track and convict poachers. Genetic analysis can help botanical gardens, zoos, and game farms improve their breeding programs by determining the genetic diversity of various plant and animal populations.

Overall, biotechnology has significantly impacted and improved the quality of life for people on this planet. And it doesn't end there. Complementing the creative endeavors of researchers and engineers are the efforts to commercialize biotechnology products with the input of business management and marketing personnel. The expertise of intellectual property and patent lawyers are also a necessary component in the process. New career opportunities in the area of bioinformatics are on the increase.

Source: College of Biotechnology of the University of Saskatchewan, http://biotechnology.usask.ca/whatisbiotech.html;