Introduction to Biotechnology

Contents: Preface. 1. Biotechnology: an introduction. 2. History of biotechnology. 3. Applications of biotechnology. 4. Bioinformatics. 5. Plant tissue culture. 6. Biotechnology and the green revolution. 7. Gene technology. 8. Food and agricultural biotechnology. 9. Research applications of biotechnology. 10. Biotechnology ethics. Appendix. Glossary. Bibliography. Index.

"This study entitled "Introduction to Biotechnology" focuses mainly on potential benefits that modern biotechnology offers to mankind. European Commission (2002) and UN, have acknowledged the role of modern biotechnology as the "next wave of the knowledge based economy after information technology".

In last few decades, the powerful tools of biotechnology have revolutionised agriculture, medicine, and environmental protection. Recent advances in understanding, preventing and treating diseases such as cystic fibrosis, cancer, and Alzheimer's were made possible by long-term investments in fundamental biomedical and biotechnology research. In addition to better health, biotechnology has provided more flavorful and nutritious foods produced with less reliance on pesticides and herbicides.

Biotechnology combines disciplines like genetics, molecular biology, biochemistry, embryology and cell biology, which are in turn linked to practical disciplines like chemical engineering, information technology and robotics.

This study will be highly useful to the readers interested in the use and application of biotechnology." (jacket)