MEDICAL BIOTECHNOLOGY FOR DIAGNOSTICS AND THERAPEUTICS
Abstract
Medical biotechnology is a fundamental area of modern healthcare, combining molecular biology, genetics, bioengineering, and computer sciences to improve disease diagnosis and treatment. Harnessing the power of biological systems and biomolecules makes it possible to develop highly sensitive diagnostic tools and specific therapeutic agents that target diseases at the molecular and cellular levels. This chapter offers a brief review of the most important diagnostic tools, such as nucleic acid-based tests, next-generation sequencing, CRISPR-based assays, immunodiagnostics, biosensors, and lab-on-a-chip systems, which have revolutionized early disease detection and diagnosis. It also reviews the most important therapeutic approaches, such as recombinant proteins, monoclonal antibodies, vaccines, gene and RNA therapies, and cell therapies, explaining their underlying principles and significance. Translation issues, such as production, regulatory frameworks, biosafety, and bioethics, are also discussed, along with the most important trends in the intersection of biotechnology, artificial intelligence, and personalized medicine. Overall, this chapter highlights the revolutionary potential of medical biotechnology to make predictive, preventive, and precision healthcare possible.