Which is one application of biotechnology in medicine?

Prepare for the Biotech Certification Test. Study with quizzes, in-depth explanations, and helpful hints. Boost your confidence and knowledge to excel in your exam journey!

The development of recombinant insulin is a significant application of biotechnology in medicine because it revolutionized the treatment of diabetes. Prior to the advent of recombinant DNA technology, insulin was primarily sourced from animal pancreases, which posed challenges related to purity, availability, and immunogenicity.

With the use of biotechnological methods, scientists can insert the human insulin gene into bacteria or yeast, enabling these microorganisms to produce insulin that is structurally identical to human insulin. This process not only streamlines insulin production but also ensures that the hormone is produced in a controlled and more efficient manner. As a result, patients with diabetes have access to safer and more effective treatment options, significantly improving their quality of life and managing their condition more effectively.

Other options listed do involve valuable advances in their respective fields, but they do not highlight the direct application of biotechnology in the context of medical treatment. For instance, advancements in herbal remedies focus on traditional knowledge rather than biotechnological interventions; organic farming techniques relate more to agriculture than medicine, and the reintroduction of extinct animal species, while a fascinating area of study, does not pertain directly to medical applications.

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