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.

An important component in any medical research is the use of peptides. These are organic compounds of amino acids that are bonded together forming a chain. Peptides are extracted using the process of peptide synthesis. What makes these compounds very important is that by using them, one can create antibodies in animals which are used as antigens in different kinds of medical treatments. Producing custom peptide synthesis is offered by biotechnology firms as a specialized service.

Another important process in the world of biotechnology is the production of custom monoclonal antibodies. They are extracted from stimulated cloned cells which are immune cells that are identical so as to produce anti-bodies that target a specific antigen. They are important in various industries particularly in medicine since monoclonal anti-bodies can be used to detect the presence of the substance to which it was derived or to purify it. Researches in the fields of immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry greatly benefit from the said process.

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.

DNA sequencing promises to revolutionize the treatment of various human illnesses by understanding how DNA is sequenced. It is the process of identifying the exact order of nucleotides within a DNA molecule. It has become an indispensable process in the field of biotechnology and can be used to determine the sequence of individual genes in humans and the resulting sequence will be used by medical researchers to make treatment decisions, medicines, or even counseling. Scientific breakthroughs using DNA sequencing has made it possible for forensic scientists to identify persons of interests using blood, saliva, and hair samples as well as in determining the identity of a corpse.

Custom peptide synthesis, custom monoclonal anti-bodies, N-terminal sequencing, and DNA sequencing are examples of the many essential processes in the field of biotechnology. The information provided from these processes is extremely helpful to various studies and majority of researchers rely on experienced biotech firms to extract these components rather than themselves for faster turnaround. If you are looking for a rewarding career in the field of medicine through scientific research, a degree in biotechnology may suit you best especially if you love science.




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