Module 6: Biotechnology Flashcards
(6 cards)
Define what biotechnology is
the use of living organisms to synthesise , break down or transform materials for human use
What are the 6 major applications of microorganisms in biotechnology
(B , B , B , C , Y , M)
Brewing
Baking
Bioremediation
Cheese making
Yoghurt
Medicines
Make 1 point about the following , explaining how microorganisms are used in these processes…
Brewing , baking and cheese making
Brewing-Yeasts ferment sugar anaerobically to produce ethanol and carbon dioxide which can be used to make alcohol
Baking-carbon dioxide produced during fermentation helps bread dough rise
Cheese making-an enzyme from genetically modified yeast causes milk to curdle , whilst bacteria and moulds add acidification , thickening and flavour
Make 1 point explaining how microorganisms are involved in the following processes
Yoghurt , medicine and bioremediation
Yoghurt-certain bacteria ferment lactose into lactic acid , which sours and solidifies milk into yoghurt
Medicine-bioengineered fungi and bacteria produce drugs like penicillin and insulin for diabetes
Bioremediation-microorganisms can speed up degradation of pollutants in soil
What are the 7 advantages of using microorganisms in biotechnology?
-cost effective cultivation and mass production leads to lower consumer prices
-less ethical issues regarding animal welfare
-rapid reproduction rate allows fast large scale production
-simple nutrient requirements and can use waste materials (lowers cost)
-high protein and low fat content makes them an efficient food source
-genetic modification can optimise production or enhance nutrient profile
-year round production possible as can be reproduced independently of weather/breeding cycles
What are 5 disadvantages of using microorganisms in biotechnology
-requires sterile conditions which can be costly
-risk of contamination by unwanted microbes
-potential toxin production , which will require removal processes
-separation of microbes from nutrient broth is required for food production
-social concerns about use of genetically modified foods/microbes grown on waste products
