Environmental Biotechnology in the 21st Century
Terry Bradley, Professor
Department of Fisheries, Animal and Veterinary Science
In 1953 Francis Crick and James Watson first
elucidated the structure of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). Genes, which comprise
these building blocks, were found to code for the synthesis of proteins that
ultimately control and regulate the processing of all components of the cell
and the functions of organisms. Some 20 years later, scientists were first able
to transfer a specific gene from one organism to another ushering in the birth
of biotechnology and the development of transgenic organisms. In 1994, approximately
40 years after the discovery of DNA, the first genetically modified products
(tomatoes) reached the grocery shelves. The exponential growth of this field
of research has led to the production of numerous transgenic plants and animals
that carry specific traits such as herbicide resistance (Roundup ready crops),
or grow more rapidly and with greater efficiency (transgenic swine). By 1998,
some 175 million acres of farmland were planted with genetically modified crops.
The rapid development of biotechnology has provided
a wealth of molecular tools that has enabled enormous progress in deciphering
how organisms function. It is now possible to determine what genes are present
in organisms and how specific factors regulate transcription and translation
of these genes into protein. Recently, these tools have been applied to a wide
array of disciplines, including marine and environmental science. Examples of
the use of biotechnology in the marine environment abound. For instance, bacteria
have been genetically engineered to degrade specific pollutants and toxicants
in the environment (bioremediation). Genetic markers, such as microsatellite
DNA, are being investigated for their potential in monitoring and managing fish
stocks. Following the model of the Human Genome Project, scientists have begun
to sequence the genomes of several commercially important marine organisms including
fish and oysters. Scientists are also "bioprospecting" for proteins unique to
organisms inhabiting extreme environment, such as deep-sea thermal vents. The
potential to expand our knowledge and wisely utilize the environment and natural
resources using biotechnological tools is enormous.