Tags: biofuel, biotech, cloning, genetic alteration

3 Biotech Achievements that Will Change the Future

Biotechnology is one of the most exciting and dynamic fields of science today. It involves the study and manipulation of all aspects of life, from the photosynthetic processes of sea algae to advanced human brain function. Biotechnicians hope to find ways to improve the quality of life of both humans and the environment, and our near and long term futures will be drastically impacted by their research. Here are the three major impacts of biotech we can expect to see:

Cloning 

Cloning is a prime example of a biotech achievement that is already changing how we understand and deal with living organisms. It involves creating a genetic copy of an already existing living organism. This has been successfully tried in the past, though ethical ambiguity has slowed that practice.

Today, cloning is used in agriculture to duplicate the choicest plant specimens for reuse. In the future, cloning will be used to regrow organs, such as hearts, livers, and skin, for medical transplants.

Biofuel 

Another exciting facet of biotechnology is the growing use and study of biofuel. Biofuel is any substance created by a living organism that holds useable energy, but is most commonly used to describe materials, such as corn ethanol, that can be put to common uses like making our cars go.

As the world’s fossil fuel reserves run out, alternative energies like biofuel will be needed to feed our energy needs. Biotechnicians are working on a variety of solutions, often including the use of microscopic bacteria and algae. One day, you may stop at a gas station and fill your car with algae waste!

Genetic Alteration 

Genetic alteration may have the most readily apparent effect on our future lives. This will allow scientists and doctors to directly alter the genetic code of living creatures, especially those that aren’t fully developed. This means a person’s genetic makeup, including their gender, hair color, and the like, can be determined before they’re even born.

Though there are some ethical issues involved in predetermining a child’s sex or height, the science has some more obviously beneficial uses, as well. For instance, it could be used to detect and remove genetic disabilities, such as Down syndrome and hemophilia, allowing people to live longer, healthier, more fulfilling lives.

Biotechnicians around the world are working on the next big breakthrough, and it’s hard to predict what will come next. Scientists in universities and private organizations such as Huntingdon Life Sciences are working constantly to bring us the next big thing and unlock the full potential of life.