Abstract

Biotechnology is the technical applications of biological systems for the production of natural substances (biogas, antibiotics, enzymes or organic acids) etc and the use of living organisms deliberately to carry out defined chemical processes and exploitation of biological processes for the use of man and animals. Among agricultural and allied fields, animal production and health have probably benefited the most from biotechnology. In animal production, biotechnology techniques applied include gene cloning, embryo transfer, artificial insemination, milk modification etc. In animal health, biotechnology techniques are used for the fast and accurate diagnosis and treatment of diseases. Gene therapy, vaccine production, production of recombinant pharmaceuticals etc are examples. The aim of this book review is to highlight the importance of biotechnology in the improvements of animal production and health.