How Does Biotechnology Enhance Medical Diagnostics?
Biotechnology enhances medical diagnostics through several avenues:
Molecular diagnostics - Techniques like Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and next-generation sequencing (NGS) allow for the detection and quantification of specific DNA or RNA sequences, leading to precise identification of pathogens or genetic mutations. Immunoassays - These are used to detect specific proteins or antibodies in a patient's sample, aiding in the diagnosis of various infections and diseases. Biosensors - Devices that use biological molecules to detect the presence of specific substances, providing rapid and accurate diagnostic results.