Wednesday, November 27, 2013

Biotech Processes Commonly Used In Medical Research

By Armand Zeiders


Biotechnology is a field of scientific study that utilizes living organisms and living systems such as micro-organisms and animal cells to make useful products or for other applications. This industry has recently sky rocketed into popularity and many companies employing this technology in their research are playing an integral role in the development and discovery of medicines and other medical treatments. What seemed to be incurable diseases from the past now have remedies thanks to breakthrough discoveries in the field of biotechnology. Here are important terms that often are used by those working for biotech companies and what they mean.

One of the common services provided by biotechnology firms to different kinds of companies are custom peptide synthesis. This refers to the process of producing peptides which are organic compounds of amino acids. These amino acids are in the form of a short chain linked together by peptide bonds also known as amide bonds. Peptides are important in medical and scientific studies because they can be used to create anti-bodies. These custom peptides can be used as antigens or enzymatic substrates.

Another process that can be used to create anti-bodies is the production of custom monoclonal anti-bodies. These anti-bodies are typically used to neutralize a certain antigen and are derived from identical or cloned immune cells. Any substance can be stimulated to produce custom monoclonal antibodies and once you have successfully extruded them, they can be used to purify or identify the presence of the same substance where it initially came from. These anti-bodies are very useful in various studies involving the immune system.

Determining the order of amino acids in proteins can also provide helpful information to be able to come up with new medicines. This is done by identifying the start of the amino acid sequence known as the N-terminus. By understanding the build of proteins and learning their purpose or use in the human body, scientists are able to develop medications or drugs that are aimed at certain metabolic pathways. N-terminus is also referred to as or N-terminal end, NH2-terminus, amino-terminus, or amine-terminus.

Probably one of the most ground-breaking biotech processes at the same time very controversial is DNA sequencing. It is a method of determining the precise sequence of nucleotides in a DNA molecule which can be used to identify an individual from other people. By understanding the components found on individual genes, medical scientists are able to create treatments to combat certain diseases, develop medical processes as well as help make wise analysis and explanations required in counseling. There are many uses of DNA sequencing not just in the quest to finding cures to diseases such as in forensic investigations.

The processes mentioned above are just some of the many processes in the biotechnology industry that are used for various studies. Many experts and scientists rely and will continue to rely on biotech firms for these kinds of services due to the much equipment and extensive expertise required when handling the materials during and after such processes. If you are a type of person who is passionate about science and medicine, biotechnology is an excellent career that is both financially and mentally rewarding.




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