BioProject
Developing Biotechnology in Latin America
Welcome to the BioProject Homepage. We seek to connect those of us interested in developing Biotechnology in Latin America.
What is Biotechnology?
Simply put, it's the application of biology to create different commercial products. Biotechnology provides us with tests for and medicines to treat anemia, several forms of cancer, multiple sclerosis, dwarfism and Hepatitis B among other diseases. Gene therapy, another application of Biotech, uses recombinant DNA technology to correct hereditary disorders. Biotechnology has applications in agriculture too. Protein-based compounds help make crops more resistant to pests and viruses and reduce our dependence on harmful pesticides by giving us non-toxic, biodegradable alternatives to strengthen crops. Finally, Biotechnology protects our environment by using organisms to rid the soil and water from contaminants, while saving more money than traditional methods like land filling and incineration.
In Latin America?
Yes. We wonder what resources Latin America has to
develop this industry, and part of BioProject’s goal is to engage a
community of like-minded people in constant search and development
of such resources. Anyway, here is some food for thought:
Cooperation and
information exchange are commonplace these days. More than that,
they have become a need, a sine qua non of excellent organizations.
Why couldn’t more Latin American organizations be formed around the
transfer of Biotechnological knowledge?
Combined, the
Latin American, African and Eastern European markets for
biopharmaceuticals are worth several tens of millions of $$
(Chemical & Engineering News, August 18th, 1997). Of
the three, Latin America is perceived as the most homogeneous new
market, with a common language and cultural heritage that would
allow companies to leverage their efforts across countries.
There are already
in place organizations that articulate industry efforts to share
information and affect legislation, for example, the
Biotechnology Industry Organization
and local advocates like the
Massachusetts Biotechnology Council. Europe is making great
progress with the new EuropaBio association. Countries like
Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea and Taiwan have declared Biotech a
priority area in their industrialization plans.
We will try to keep track of what is new and interesting in the
development of Biotechnology, but things will be more rewarding and
challenging if a network of interested people is formed around this
idea. Contact Raul Necochea
if this sounds of interest to you. And don't forget to sign the
guest book