Glossary of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering

Abstract

Biotechnology is a general term used about a very broad field of study. According to the Convention on Biological Diversity, biotechnology means: “any technological application that uses biological systems, living organisms, or derivatives thereof, to make or modify products or processes for specific use.” Interpreted in this broad sense, the definition covers many of the tools and techniques that are commonplace today in agriculture and food production. If interpreted in a narrow sense to consider only the “new” DNA, molecular biology and reproductive technology, the definition covers a range of different technologies, including gene manipulation, gene transfer, DNA typing and cloning of mammals. The swiftness of change in the sector means that terminology is constantly evolving, and yesterday’s buzzword is today’s jargon, and might be tomorrow’s mainstream term. The rate of evolution of terminology has been such that it has been very difficult to remain abreast of current usages.