In recent news, a noteworthy development in the field of biotechnology has surfaced. The Society of Biotechnology of India (SBPI) has officially been launched. This new organisation is the brainchild of former biotechnologists and technocrats previously affiliated with the Union Department of Biotechnology, under the Ministry of Science and Technology.
What is the SBPI?
The Society of Biotechnology of India is a non-profit organisation. Its primary objective is to promote transformative changes in the realm of modern biotechnology. The aim is to enable advancements towards core research which could eventually produce technologies and products that could significantly contribute to economic and social development.
Aiding India’s Research Endeavours
The SBPI aims to supplement India’s efforts to enhance funding for research in areas that are considered ‘gap areas.’ This typically includes infrastructure, human resources, regulatory frameworks, and converting leads from research and development into viable applications. It can be seen as a proactive step to nurture and consolidate the country’s burgeoning biotechnology sector.
Experienced Members at the Helm
Members constituting the SBPI are seasoned veterans in promoting biotechnology. Their portfolio includes achievements such as the promotion of BT cotton, introduction of recombinant therapeutic proteins and vaccines, and fostering collaborations on an international platform.
Significance of Recombinant Therapeutic Proteins
Recombinant Therapeutic Proteins are significant contributors to the field of biotechnology. These proteins are produced from recombinant DNA using biomolecular engineering. This process involves inserting a gene encoding of a protein into expression systems such as bacteria, yeast or mammalian cell cultures. In the realm of clinical applications, recombinant therapeutic proteins have become increasingly important, replacing their original animal-derived counterparts used in medicine.
Table of Key Facts
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Type of Organisation | Non-profit |
| Main Objective | Promote transformative changes in modern biotechnology research |
| Goal | Produce technologies and products for economic and social development |
| Role | Supplement India’s research funding in ‘gap areas’ |
| Key Achievement | Introduction of recombinant therapeutic proteins and vaccines |
Diverse Applications of Therapeutic Proteins
The implications and applications of therapeutic proteins are diverse. They are used in various treatments, such as human insulin for diabetes, erythropoietin for anemia and chronic renal failure, and vaccines for Hepatitis B etc. The role of these proteins, largely possible due to advancements in biotechnology, is vital to the field of medical science.