biotechnology

noun

1. (uncountable, usually)The use of living organisms (especially microorganisms) in industrial, agricultural, medical and other technological applications.

   “Japan's strength lies in more traditional biotechnology such as fermentation.”

   “The developments in biotechnology, particularly with the basic understanding of genetics, immunology, biochemistry, biochemical engineering and molecular biology, have paved the way for major biotechnology products and processes and have provided tools to the manufacturing and service industry.”

   “Moreover, Arnhart points out that both the proponents and critics of biotechnology are compelled to appeal to our natural moral sense.”

2. (uncountable, usually)The application of the principles and practices of engineering and technology to the life sciences.

   “Agricultural biotechnology comprises a collection of scientific techniques, including genetic engineering, that are used to modify and improve plants, animals and microorganisms for human profit. Agricultural biotechnologies are not a substitute for conventional plant and animal breeding, but can be a powerful complement to improving the efficiency and sustainability of agricultural production.”

   “2008, Yutaka Tanaka, Attitude toward Bioethics and Acceptance of Biotechnology, William G. Flynne (editor), Biotechnology and Bioengineering, page 175, The result of study 3 suggests that the factor of bioethics is important not only for the acceptance of biotechnologies themselves, such as gene recombination technology and clone technology, but also the acceptance of foods and products which are produced by the use of biotechnologies.”

   “It therefore follows that we need to ensure that the conception, development, dissemination and application of biotechnologies are held to ethical democratic standars which ensure gender equality.”

3. (uncountable, usually)genetic engineering