Main applications of biotechnology
Biotechnology is a multidisciplinary science based on the use of biological systems and living organisms to create and modify specific products or processes. It encompasses a broad spectrum of traditional and cutting-edge technologies.
Traditional biotechnology dates back centuries and is based on the application of ancient techniques to obtain products that come from certain living organisms such as bread, wine, milk, cheese and yogurt. Another example is the brewing of beer, whose process includes the germination of barley together with fermentation by yeasts.
Modern biotechnology covers various fields of action.
Biotechnology Sector Delivers Big Gains for Investors
The biotechnology is gaining ground thanks to its multiple applications, which makes this megatrend an important option for investors looking to expand their portfolio with innovation.
Areas of use
Medicine and pharmaceuticals
- Biotechnology has given rise to gene therapy, which aims to eliminate genetic defects before and after birth.
- It is used to transform some bacteria into insulin producers, which is used in the treatment of patients with diabetes.
- It aims to cure various diseases through vaccines, antibiotics and other drugs.
Agriculture
- It has been used to create transgenic crops, introducing new traits, such as the reduction of pests and certain diseases, making them of higher quality and much healthier.
- It is useful in plant breeding to increase yields.
- Facilitates early diagnosis of crop diseases and pests.
Environment
- It helps to produce biodegradable materials and purify wastewater, facilitating its treatment.
- It helps in the search for alternative sources of fuel, which are healthy for the environment and do not produce gases. This helps not only to reduce pollution but also to preserve oil resources.
Feeding
- Thanks to biotechnology, much healthier and nutrient-rich foods can be obtained.
- It makes it possible to produce a greater quantity of food and increase its shelf life, which in turn contributes to the reduction of world hunger.
- It provides greater resistance to food during the cultivation period.
Industry
- Promotes the optimization of industrial processes.
- Seeks to replace polluting technologies with cleaner ones.
- Among the things it helps to produce are construction materials, detergents and personal care products.
Livestock and fisheries
- It facilitates the identification of the genetic map and specific genes of animals.
- It is useful in improving the quality and quantity of species.
- Helps control various diseases.
An investment opportunity
According to data from IBISWorld the average growth of the biotechnology industry in the period 2015-2020 was 1.3%, while the size of the market in that last year amounted to 295 billion dollars, with a total of 11,343 companies immersed in the field.
The global biotechnology market is expected to reach some 833.34 billion by 2027, growing at a compound annual rate of 7.02% during the period 2020-2027, according to information from Fior Markets.
In this sense, injecting capital into biotechnology may be one of the best present and future options for investors. There are several investment funds that promote the development of such technology and in which it is possible to invest, in an attempt to contribute to the improvement of human health and quality of life.
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Main applications of biotechnology
Biotechnology ranges from traditional techniques to the most advanced technology and seeks the development of diverse products for the benefit of mankind. This science is immersed in various industries such as medicine, agriculture and the energy sector.