Encyclopaedia of Genetic Biotechnology

Biotechnology is technology based on biology, agriculture, food science and medicine. Modern use of the term refers to genetic engineering as well as cell and tissue culture technologies. However, the concept encompasses a wider range and history of procedures for modifying living organisms according to human purposes, going back to domestication of animals, cultivation of plants and improvements to these through breeding programmers that employ artificial selection and hybridization. Plant Biotechnology and Genetics explores contemporary techniques and applications of plant biotechnology, illustrating the tremendous potential this technology has to change our world by improving the food supply. As an introductory text, its focus is on basic science and processes. it guides students from plant biology and genetics to breeding to principles and applications of plant biotechnology. This book is designed to acquaint readers with the study area of modern genetic biotechnology. Contents: Biotechnology and Genetically Modified Organisms; Genetically Modified Foods: Harmful or Helpful?; Biotechnology for the 21st Century: New Horizons; Learning from the Past: Successes and Failures with Agricultural Biotechnologies; The Role of Agricultural Biotechnologies for Production of Bioenergy; The Potential of Cryopreservation and Reproductive Technologies; Global Overview of Crop Genetic Resources; State of Forest Tree Genetic Modification.