🧬 Science that transforms life
Did you know that Mendel’s experiments with peas opened the door to one of the most revolutionary disciplines of the 21st century? Biotechnology applies knowledge of genetics, biology and technology to solve problems in agriculture, medicine and the environment. Today we will discover how this science impacts our present… and shapes our future.
🧑🔬 What is biotechnology?
Biotechnology is the use of living organisms or parts of organisms to create useful products. It combines molecular biology, genetic engineering and technology to generate innovative solutions in three key areas:
- In agriculture: more resilient and nutritious crops
- In medicine: new drugs and advanced therapies
- In environment: tools to clean up pollutants and produce sustainable energy
🌿 Mendel and Applied Genetics
Mendel’ s discoveries were key to understanding how traits are inherited. Although he did not know DNA or genetic engineering, his principles enabled scientists to develop technologies to modify organisms with precision. Today, his legacy is present in every transgenic plant, biological drug and gene-editing technique.
💡 Current applications of biotechnology
🌽 In agriculture
Biotechnology allows the creation of genetically modified organisms (GMO) with characteristics such as:
- Resistance to pests
- Tolerance to extreme climates
- Improved nutritional value
Example: Bt corn produces a protein that makes it resistant to certain insects, reducing the use of pesticides.
💉 In medicine
Thanks to biotechnology, it is possible to produce medicines using organisms such as bacteria or yeast. An important case is human insulin produced by genetically modified bacteria, which has made its treatment more accessible for people with diabetes.
🌍 In the environment
Some genetically modified bacteria can break down plastics or clean up oil spills. Technologies have also been developed to produce biofuels from organic waste.
🧪 Modern techniques in biotechnology
🔧 Genetic engineering
Consists of modifying an organism’s DNA to introduce, eliminate or alter specific genes. This technique makes it possible to improve crops, treat diseases and design customized solutions.
🧬 Cloning
The process of creating genetically identical copies of an organism. It can be done at the cellular level or in whole organisms, as in the famous case of Dolly the sheep.
🧠 CRISPR-Cas9
An advanced tool that allows highly precise gene editing. It is used in medical research, gene therapies and agriculture. Its versatility has revolutionized the field of biotechnology.
📖 “Everything God has created is good, and nothing is to be rejected…” (1 Timothy 4:4). Well-applied science can be a way to care for creation.
🎬 Watch this video to learn more
💭 Your mind in action
💬 Reflect:
- What advantages and risks do you observe in biotechnology?
- What ethical responsibility should scientists have when modifying living organisms?
- If you could change one genetic characteristic of a plant or animal, what would it be and why?
- How does your perception of biotechnology change knowing that part of its origin is in Mendel’s studies?
🧠 Your turn: Make a list of the three advances in biotechnology that surprised you the most. which one would you most like to study in depth and why?
🔍 Want to know more?
Other topics you may want to research:
- What are the differences between transgenics and hybrid products?
- How does the CRISPR technique work step by step?
- Examples of current animal cloning
- Positive and negative environmental impact of biotechnology
🛠️ Show what you know
Choose one or more activities to embody your learning:
- 📝 Write: Imagine you are a scientist who has created a new modified organism. Describe its usefulness and justify its development.
- 🎤 Expose: Record a video explaining to other students what biotechnology is and how we use it in everyday life.
- 🧑💻 Create: Design an infographic with the main applications of biotechnology in agriculture, medicine and environment.
- 📸 Document: Research a real case where biotechnology has solved a social or environmental problem. Prepare a visual presentation with your findings.
- 💬 Debate: Should there be limits in the genetic modification of living organisms? State your position arguing from a scientific and ethical perspective.
You can include this lesson in the school portfolio if the student completes activities from "Your mind in action", "Want to know more?", or "Show what you know", and keeps evidence of the work done (photos, writings, recordings, etc.).
🎁 In addition, if you are a subscriber, you can evaluate and grade this lesson using the downloadable guide available in your account.
