I'd greatly appreciate if some one could very briefly inform me on any two techniques used in agricultural biotechnology - one that relies on new biotechnology (ie molecular) and one that relies on old biotechnology (ie not molecular!) and the same for medicine

Basically id like to know a little about the techniques and the advantages of that particular molecular technique over the non-molecular one
thx

In agricultural biotechnology, one technique that relies on new biotechnology is genetic engineering, which falls under molecular techniques. It involves the direct manipulation of an organism's DNA to introduce or modify specific traits. This can be done by inserting genes from one organism into another, thereby allowing the organism to express desired traits or produce specific compounds. Genetic engineering has various applications in agriculture, such as developing crops with enhanced nutritional content, improved tolerance to pests or environmental conditions, and increased yield potential.

The advantages of genetic engineering over non-molecular techniques in agriculture are:

1. Precision: Genetic engineering allows for precise and targeted modifications to be made to the organism's DNA, enabling scientists to introduce or alter specific traits with a high degree of control. This precision ensures that only the desired trait is transferred, minimizing unintended changes.

2. Speed: Genetic engineering techniques can expedite the development of new crop varieties with desired traits. Traditional breeding methods often require multiple generations to achieve the desired results, whereas genetic engineering can produce genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in a shorter time frame.

An example of an old biotechnology technique in agriculture is traditional plant breeding. This approach involves selecting and crossbreeding plants with desirable traits over multiple generations to develop new varieties with improved characteristics. It relies on the natural genetic variability present within plant populations.

The advantages of traditional plant breeding over molecular techniques in agriculture are:

1. Genetic Diversity: Traditional breeding methods allow for the combination of diverse genetic material from different varieties or species. This genetic diversity provides a broader range of potential traits and adaptations, contributing to the resilience and adaptability of crops.

2. Broad Applicability: Traditional plant breeding can be performed without the need for specialized laboratory facilities and equipment. It can be conducted by farmers or plant breeders in conventional agricultural settings, making it more accessible and cost-effective for smaller-scale operations.

In medicine, a molecular technique is gene therapy, which involves the introduction of genetic material into a patient's cells to treat or prevent disease. This can be done by replacing or correcting a faulty gene, introducing a new gene, or modifying the expression of existing genes. Gene therapy holds potential for treating a wide range of genetic disorders, cancers, and certain infectious diseases.

The advantages of gene therapy over non-molecular techniques in medicine are:

1. Targeted Treatment: Gene therapy allows for the precise targeting of specific disease-causing genes or pathways. By directly modifying the genetic material, it addresses the root causes of the disease at the molecular level, potentially providing more effective and long-lasting treatments.

2. Personalized Medicine: Gene therapy can be tailored to an individual patient's genetic makeup, offering the potential for personalized treatment approaches. This customization takes into account variations in genes and their expression, optimizing therapeutic outcomes.

An example of an old biotechnology technique in medicine is the use of vaccines, which have been used for centuries to prevent infectious diseases. Vaccines typically involve the administration of weakened or inactivated forms of disease-causing agents or their components. This stimulates the immune system to recognize and mount a defense against those agents, providing immunity without causing the actual disease.

The advantages of vaccines over molecular techniques in medicine are:

1. Proven Track Record: Vaccines have a long history of success in preventing and eradicating infectious diseases. Through comprehensive vaccination programs, many once-devastating diseases, such as polio and smallpox, have been effectively controlled.

2. Wide Accessibility: Vaccines have been widely manufactured and distributed, making them accessible to large populations. They can be administered through various routes (e.g., injection, oral, nasal), facilitating their deployment in different healthcare settings, including resource-limited regions.

It's important to note that both molecular and non-molecular techniques have their own strengths and limitations. The choice of technique depends on the specific goals, context, and resources available for implementation.