7.5.4: Role of biotechnology
Not started yet — this one needs some love.
Biotechnical and agricultural solutions, including genetic modification, can help meet the demands of the growing human population.
Modern biotechnology techniques enable large quantities of microorganisms to be cultured for food.
The fungus Fusarium is useful for producing mycoprotein, a protein-rich food suitable for vegetarians.
The fungus is grown on glucose syrup, in aerobic conditions, and the biomass is harvested and purified.
A genetically modified bacterium produces human insulin.
Human insulin from genetically modified bacteria is harvested and purified, then used to treat people with diabetes.
GM crops could provide more food or food with an improved nutritional value such as golden rice.
Common exam mistakes
Fusarium is a fungus, not a bacterium or alga.
Mycoprotein production needs aerobic conditions; do not describe it as anaerobic fermentation.
Golden rice is an example of improved nutritional value, not insulin production.