Articles Index
The Human Genome Project
In 1990, a project was initiated to determine the entire sequence of DNA making up the human genome. The project involved participants from laboratories worldwide and resulted in significant advances in DNA screening and sequencing technologies, in addition to the discovery of thousands of new genes.
The Many Job Descriptions in a Small Biotech Company
Advice to those interested in a career with a biotechnology startup, or looking to start their own biotech company. Biotech startups require innovative, versatile people able to fulfill a variety of responsibilities like the ones listed here.
Methods for Protein Purification
Methods of protein purification for biotechnology laboratory applications.
Helicos BioSciences Corporation
A case study and company history of Helicos BioSciences Corporation, specialists in single molecule technology, sequencing by synthesis and the innovators of a technique for true single molecule sequencing.
Optimizing Enzyme Processes
Four approaches to optimizing an enzyme process for commercial production, ranging from natural selection to fine-tuned molecular-level genetic manipulations.
Restriction Enzymes Explained
An explanation of a special class of enzymes known as the restriction endonucleases.
What is Biotechnology?
Definition of biotechnology and a description of the biotech industry in modern times.
Nanomedicine and Disease
How nanotechnology is being applied to nanomedicine and the treatment of diseases such as cancer.
Biotechnology and Your Holiday Meal
Biotechnology is part of our everyday lives, Christmas included. In addition to the more familiar products of biotechnology, some of the more traditional Christmas foods, some dating back centuries, incorporate the use of microorganisms and a knowledge of how to control them. These include Christmas cake (plum pudding), wassail, jellies, cheeses, and stollen.
GeoVax: Developing an AIDS Vaccine
A case study of GeoVax Labs Inc., a leader in HIV vaccine development.
Membrane Bioreactors
Membrane reactors are frequently used by biotechnology companies as part of their Process Intensification strategy.
Technology and Health Risks
An interview with Dr. Magda Havas, a scientist from Trent University, Peterborough, Ontario, and a world leader in research on the biological effects of exposure to dirty electricity.
Parkinson's Disease
Causes, symptoms and treatments for the neurodegenerative "shaking palsy" known as Parkinson's disease are described. Specific genes involved in the progression of the disorder are named and their roles in the death of dopamine-producing nerve cells of the brain, are described.
Genencor and Cellulosic Ethanol
Genencor is a biotechnology company specializing in industrial enzymes and environmentally-friendly processes. Their innovative approach to biofuel production has led to development of the Accellerase 1000 enzyme product which results in enhanced bioethanol production from cellulosic feedstocks.
Dendreon Corporation
A case study of Dendreon Corporation and their novel Active Cellular Immunotherapies (ACIs) for treatment of various types of cancer. The biotechnology company's pipeline products are discussed, including the controvery surrounding PROvenge, for prostate cancer, and the most promising and advanced drug in the portfolio.
Revivicor's Regenerative Medicine Project
Stem cell research that bypasses the ethical issues surrounding use of embryonic tissues, as is done in therapeutic cloning. The regenerative medicine project is based on the process of de-differentiation of skin cells, to produce stem cells.
Biomedical Applications for Smart Polymers
A description of the possible and current uses for smart polymers in the biotechnology industry. Types of stimulus responsive polymers and nanoparticles are explained and their potential for use in biomedicine is discussed.
Novozymes
A case study on the Danish bioproducts company, Novozymes, a global leader in enzyme technology, and producer of recombinant enzymes for industrial uses such as detergents, animal feed and biofuel production. The former leader in insulin production is renowned for its focus on environmental and social sustainability.
Theory Behind the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
Learn the basic theory behind the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique for making multiple copies of a gene from a sample of DNA.
Enzyme Biotechnology in Everyday Life
A list of common products of enzyme biotechnology that are used every day in and around the home, such as paper products, detergents, textiles and foods and beverages. These household items are the result of commercialization of natural and recombinant enzymes produced by genetic protein engineering.
Common pH Indicators
Some common pH indicators with near neutral pka values, and pH ranges making them suitable for use in colorimetric bioassays.
Are Nanoparticles Safe?
An outline of what nanoparticles are, how they are applied in biotechnology and safety issues surrounding their use.
Nanoparticles Used in Biotechnology
A summary and classification of the nanoparticles most commonly used in nanomedical research and other biotechnological applications.
Pursuing a Career in Science and Law
The high demand for legal professionals with science and technology backgrounds is explained and career expectations for individuals studying science and law are discussed.
Enzymes Used in the Dairy Industry
A description of the types of enzymes used in the dairy industry and their role in the production of cheese, yogurt and other food products.