ADME An abbreviation for "absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion." The term describes the biological fate of a drug after being administered to an animal or human. Measuring these parameters is an integral part of pre-clinical and early human testing of new drugs. Amino Acids A group of 20 different kinds of small molecules that link together in long chains to form proteins. Amino acids are often referred to as the "building blocks" of proteins. Antibodies A class of proteins that forms one important arm of the body's immune defenses. Antibodies bind to foreign proteins, (e.g., infectious agents), attacking them and signaling other components of the immune system. Due to their ability to bind precisely to specific proteins, biotech researchers use antibodies as research tools, therapeutic molecules and diagnostics (e.g., pregnancy testing kits, which make use of monoclonal antibodies to detect hormones in women's urine). Apoptosis A normal cellular process that involves a genetically programmed series of events leading to cell death. Apoptosis is commonly referred to as "cell suicide". Array A rectangular matrix or plate that allows for many tests to be conducted in parallel. In some laboratory instruments, multiple small detectors or probes (e.g., DNA and/or protein) are positioned in an array to screen or be screened. Assay Any type of test that researchers use to evaluate biochemical activity. Base Pairs Two molecules that together form a "rung" on the DNA ladder. The bases are the "letters" that spell out the genetic code: "A" for adenine, "T" for thymine, "G" for guanine, and "C" for cytosine. In base pairing, adenine always pairs with thymine, and guanine always pairs with cytosine. Hence, the code "ATGC". Bioinformatics The field that uses computer-based tools to address biological questions. Bioinformatics has emerged as an important discipline to facilitate modern biological research, which involves the generation, analysis and storage of massive amounts of data. Biologic License Application (BLA) An application that companies file with the FDA to request marketing approval for biotherapeutic products in the United States. Biological Products (Biologics) A human or animal health product that is derived from or mimics a naturally occurring protein or complex sugar based process or substance to treat diseases or medical conditions (e.g., insulin). Biomaterials Biological molecules, such as proteins and complex sugars, which are used to make medical devices. Biomaterials are commonly used as structural elements in reconstructive surgery (e.g., bone, cartilage or heart valve replacements). Bioremediator A biological product that is used to address environmental problems, such as chemical spills (e.g., microorganisms that render hazardous wastes nonhazardous). Chondrocyte When referring to bone or cartilage, mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) are commonly known as osteochondrogenic (or osteogenic, chondrogenic, osteoprogenitor, etc.) cells since a single MSC has shown the ability to differentiate into chondrocytes or osteoblasts, depending on the medium. In vivo, differentiation of a MSC in a vascularized area (such as bone) yields an osteoblasts, whereas differentiation of a MSC in a non-vascularized area (such as cartilage) yields a chondrocyte. Chondrocytes undergo terminal differentiation when they become hypertrophic during endochondral ossification. This last stage is characterized by major phenotypic changes in the cell. Chromosome A structure in the nucleus of a cell comprised of a long, folded DNA molecule and protein. Genes, which are located along the length of each chromosome, contain the blueprint for making proteins. Human beings have 23 pairs (46 total) of chromosomes. The number of chromosomes varies from species to species. Cell Culture Cell culture is the process by which either prokaryotic or eukaryotic cells are grown under controlled conditions. In practice the term "cell culture" has come to refer to the culturing of cells derived from multicellular eukaryotes, especially animal cells. The historical development and methods of cell culture are closely interrelated to those of tissue culture and organ culture. Cells can be isolated from tissues for ex vivo culture in several ways. Cells can be easily purified from blood, however only the white cells are capable of growth in culture. Mononuclear cells can be released from soft tissues by enzymatic digestion with enzymes such as collagenase, trypsin, or pronase, which break down the extracellular matrix. Alternatively, pieces of tissue can be placed in growth media, and the cells that grow out are available for culture. This method is known as explant culture. Clinical Trials FDA-regulated research studies in human subjects that are conducted to seek answers to specific questions about new or known treatments. Clinical trials are used to determine the safety and efficacy (i.e. how well it works) of new drugs or treatments. According to the National Institutes of Health, carefully conducted clinical trials are the fastest and safest way to find treatments that work in people. Cloning A technique that duplicates genes, cells, or entire organisms that are genetically identical to a single common ancestor gene, cell or organism. Researchers can then insert a cloned gene into an organism, and induce it to produce the protein of that gene. Cloning is a fundamental molecular biology tool, and the foundation for many drug discovery programs. Combinatorial Chemistry Techniques for producing different molecules in parallel. Traditional chemistry involves serial synthesis, creating one type of molecule at a time. These technologies have vastly increased the number of new synthetic molecules available for testing as potential new drugs. Cytoplasm The material inside the cellular membrane and outside the nucleus where the cell's infrastructure (e.g., mitochondria) is suspended. Diagnostic A disease detection product that may be used to optimize the course of treatment or action. Diagnostics can also be used to monitor healthy individuals. DNA Deoxyribonucleic acid, or DNA is a nucleic acid molecule that contains the genetic instructions used in the development and functioning of all living organisms. The main role of DNA is the long-term storage of information and it is often compared to a set of blueprints, since DNA contains the instructions needed to construct other components of cells, such as proteins and RNA molecules. The DNA segments that carry this genetic information are called genes, but other DNA sequences have structural purposes, or are involved in regulating the use of this genetic information. DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) The molecule that contains genetic information for making proteins. DNA, a molecule that is fundamental to most living organisms, typically appears double-stranded, where each strand consists of nucleotides linked in a specific order. The discovery of the structure of DNA in 1953 by James Watson and Francis Crick was one of the landmark events of the 20th century. DNA Probes Single-stranded DNA fibers or fragments labeled with radioactive substance or tagged in other ways for easy identification (e.g., disease detection). Because scientists now understand how genetic messages are coded and decoded, they can design probes to detect specific molecules with great precision. Drug discovery In medicine, biotechnology and pharmacology, drug discovery is the process by which drugs are discovered and/or designed. In the past most drugs have been discovered either by identifying the active ingredient from traditional remedies or by serendipitous discovery. A new approach has been to understand how disease and infection are controlled at the molecular and physiological level and to target specific entities based on this knowledge. The process of drug discovery involves the identification of candidates, synthesis, characterization, screening, and assays for therapeutic efficacy. Once a compound has shown its value in these tests, it will begin the process of drug development prior to clinical trials. Enzyme A protein that catalyzes chemical reactions (e.g., oxidation, reduction, cleavage). Enzymes are naturally occurring proteins found in all living organisms. A number of enzymes have also been developed as biological therapeutics. Expression profiling Microarray technology is often used for gene expression profiling. It makes use of the sequence resources created by the genome sequencing projects and other sequencing efforts to answer the question, what genes are expressed in a particular cell type of an organism, at a particular time, under particular conditions? For instance, they allow comparison of gene expression between normal and diseased (e.g., cancerous) cells. There are several names for this technology - DNA microarrays, DNA arrays, DNA chips, gene chips, others. Sometimes a distinction is made between these names but in fact they are all synonyms as there are no standard definitions for which type of microarray technology should be called by which name. Fast-track Status An FDA designation assigned to expedite the review of new drugs that are intended to treat serious or life-threatening conditions, and that demonstrate the potential to address unmet medical needs. Fibroblast A fibroblast is a type of cell that synthesizes and maintains the extracellular matrix of many animal tissues. Fibroblasts provide a structural framework (stroma) for many tissues, and play a critical role in wound healing. They are the most common cells of connective tissue in animals. The main function of fibroblasts is to maintain the structural integrity of connective tissue by continuously secreting precursors of the extracellular matrix. Fibroblasts secrete the precursors of all the components of the extracellular matrix, primarily the ground substance and a variety of fibers. The composition of the extracellular matrix determines the physical properties of connective tissues. Fixed tissues The study of tissue is known as histology, or, in connection with disease, histopathology. The classical tools for studying the tissues are the wax block, the tissue stain, and the optical microscope, though developments in electron microscopy, immunofluorescence, and frozen sections have all added to the sum of knowledge in the last couple of decades.With these tools, the classical appearances of the tissues can be examined in health and disease, enabling considerable refinement of clinical diagnosis and prognosis. There are four basic types of tissue in the body of all animals, including the human body and lower multicellular organisms such as insects. These compose all the organs, structures and other contents. Functional Genomics The study of the roles that genes play in directing biological processes (e.g., how do specific genes contribute to or cause disease). Gene The smallest unit of an organism that is capable of transmitting and expressing genetic information. Genes, located on chromosomes, contain the genetic blueprint for making specific proteins. Gene Chips/DNA Microarrays Technologies that researchers use to analyze genes in normal and/or diseased tissue. The arrays enable researchers to assess the activity of a large number of genes simultaneously. The technology involves a fluorescent label attachment to single-stranded DNA fragments that are affixed to silicon chips. When single-stranded DNA isolated from a cell sample is passed over the chips, complementary strands bind and generate a measurable fluorescent signal that indicates specific gene activity. Gene Sequencing A laboratory technique used to identify the arrangement of "nucleotide" building blocks in DNA molecules or fragments. Through gene sequence comparisons, researchers can identify mutations that may be responsible for a disease state. Gene Therapy A therapeutic approach intended to replace a defective gene with a normally functioning gene in a patient, or to impart a new, beneficial function in cells. Gene therapies are being developed to treat genetic disorders caused by a single defective gene (e.g., Huntington's disease, sickle-cell anemia) as well as for more complex conditions (e.g., heart disease or cancer). Gene expression Gene expression is a multi-step process that begins with transcription of DNA into messenger RNA (mRNA). In eukaryotic cells (mammals, reptiles, plants etc.) transcription is followed by post transcriptional modification of the transcript RNA, which in turn may control amount and timing of appearance of the functional product of a gene. Modification of the mRNA includes excision of non-coding sequences within the mRNA ("introns"), addition of bases at the tail-end (poly-A tail) and modification of bases within the mRNA. After this, mRNA leaves the cell nucleus. mRNA is then translated by the ribosome to produce a polypeptide. Further changes may then occur through post-translational modification of the polypeptide product, resulting in the final protein. Any step of gene expression may be modulated, from the transcription step to post-translational modification of a protein. Gene regulation gives the cell control over structure and function, and is the basis for cellular differentiation, morphogenesis and the versatility and adaptability of any organism. Gene regulation may also serve as a susbstrate for evolutionary change, since control of the timing, location, and amount of gene expression can have a profound effect on the functions (actions) the gene in the organism. Genetic Map Specific gene locations, marked with probes, along a chromosome. Researchers use genetic mapping to identify the minute differences in DNA sequences that predispose individuals to a wide range of inherited and degenerative diseases. Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) An animal or plant whose genes have been adapted to improve their yield or survivability (e.g., drought, pests, disease) and/or increase utility (e.g., improved nutritional content, production of therapeutics). When the living cells have been genetically engineered with DNA from an outside source, the plant or animal is called "transgenic". Genetically Modified Food The alteration of a food's existing DNA via the introduction of genetic material from an external source. Genetically modified foods have a potential to enable longer shelf lives, improve nutritional content and remove allergens from foods. Genetics The study of single genes, one at a time, at a specific point in time. Most biotechnology research in genetics has been focused on the identification of genes whose presence, or absence, may define a patient's susceptibility to disease. Genomics The study of defining gene functions and interactions through mapping, sequencing and structure analysis. Genomics, together with proteomics research, is yielding novel ways to discover potential disease therapies by revealing thousands of new biological targets. The research may also lead to tests to determine optimal treatment based on an individual's genome, a concept commonly referred to as "Personalized Medicine". Germ Cell The reproductive cells of the body, specifically, either egg or sperm cells. High-Throughput Screening (HTS) A drug discovery technique that involves rapid in vitro screening of large numbers of compound libraries-generally 10s to 100s of thousands of compounds-using robotic screening assays, with the goal of isolating qualified drug candidates. HTS has become an important modern drug discovery tool. Human Genome Project In the Year 2000, scientists working on the Human Genome Project from the National Institutes of Health, with multiple global universities, research centers and the biotechnology company, Celera Corporation, unveiled the first assembly of the human genome map. Immunohistochemistry Immunohistochemistry or IHC refers to the process of localizing proteins in cells of a tissue section exploiting the principle of antibodies binding specifically to antigens in biological tissues. It takes its name from the roots "immuno," in reference to antibodies used in the procedure, and "histo," meaning tissue. Immunohistochemical staining is widely used in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. Specific molecular markers are characteristic of particular cancer types. IHC is also widely used in basic research to understand the distribution and localization of biomarkers in different parts of a tissue. Immune response An organism's reaction to a foreign entity (e.g., bacteria, virus, organ). Inhibitors Agents that block or suppress the activity of proteins, (e.g., enzymes or receptors). In situ hybridization In situ hybridization (ISH) is a type of hybridization that uses a labeled complementary DNA or RNA strand (i.e., probe) to localize a specific DNA or RNA sequence in a portion or section of tissue (in situ), or, if the tissue is small enough (e.g. plant seeds, Drosophila embryos), in the entire tissue (whole mount ISH). This is distinct from immunohistochemistry, which localizes proteins in tissue sections. DNA ISH can be used to determine the structure of chromosomes. Fluorescent DNA ISH (FISH) can, for example, be used in medical diagnostics to assess chromosomal integrity. RNA ISH (hybridization histochemistry) is used to measure and localize mRNAs and other transcripts within tissue sections or whole mounts. Investigational New Drug (IND) An application that companies submit to the FDA prior to requesting permission to initiate human clinical trials for a potential product in the United States. In vitro A term that refers to events that occur outside a cell or organism. The literal translation of the term means "in glass". In vitro is frequently used to describe research experiments that are conducted in glass test tubes or petri dishes vs. in the cell (e.g., animal or human testing). In vivo A term that refers to events that occur inside a cell or organism. In research and diagnostics, the term is used to describe animal or human testing. Lead Optimization/Pre-clinical Candidate A drug discovery term that refers to the adjustment of an active compound's physical characteristics to meet clinical profile requirements of in vivo efficacy, safety, lack of toxicology, circulating half-life, etc. The goal of lead optimization is to identify the best possible drug candidate for clinical development. Medical Device A diagnostic or therapeutic object that often works by mechanical and/or electrical action versus solely by chemical action (i.e. drug). Examples include hip or valve replacements, pacemakers and grafts. Messenger RNA (mRNA) A type of RNA molecule that complements the genetic information from DNA in the nucleus, and transfers it to the ribosomes where it is translated into protein with the help of tRNA. Nanotechnology An emerging field that refers to the miniaturization process of therapeutics, diagnostics and research. The name is derived from the "nanometer", which is one billionth of a meter (2 - 4 atoms wide). The technology is often used to create microdevices (e.g., gene chips or potentially embedded drug delivery devices). New Drug Application (NDA) An application that companies file with the FDA to seek marketing approval of a new drug in the United States. The specified drug is typically a product of medicinal chemistry (chemical based vs. protein or biologics based, see BLA). Nuclear Transfer A process that describes the removal of the nucleus from a donor cell and its insertion into another cell, from which two original nuclei have been removed. Nuclear transfer differs from cloning in that two distinct cells, and sometimes different organisms, are involved. Nucleotides Molecules that are the "building blocks" of nucleic acids (e.g., DNA or RNA). Orphan Drug Act A U.S. law designed to encourage companies to develop rare disease treatments. The law provides incentives to companies, including up to seven years of market exclusivity for "orphan drug" products. The law defines these products as those that target diseases that affect fewer than 200,000 Americans. Since the law's enactment in 1982, more than 100 orphan drugs and biological products have been brought to market. Pharmaceutical A chemically derived health product that is developed to treat diseases/medical conditions in humans or animals. Pharmacogenomics Pharmacogenomics is the branch of pharmaceutics which deals with the influence of genetic variation on drug response in patients by correlating gene expression or single-nucleotide polymorphisms with a drug's efficacy or toxicity. By doing so, pharmacogenomics aims to develop rational means to optimise drug therapy, with respect to the patients' genotype, to ensure maximum efficacy with minimal adverse effects. Such approaches promise the advent of "personalized medicine", in which drugs and drug combinations are optimised for each individual's unique genetic makeup. Pharmacogenomics is the whole genome application of pharmacogenetics, which examines the single gene interactions with drugs. Pharmacology Pharmacology as a chemical science is practiced by pharmacologists. Subdisciplines include clinical pharmacology (the medical field of medication effects on humans), neuro- and psychopharmacology (effects of medication on behavior and nervous system functioning), toxicology and theoretical pharmacology. If substances have medicinal properties, they are considered pharmaceuticals. The field encompasses drug composition and properties, interactions, toxicology, therapy, and medical applications and antipathogenic capabilities. Development of medication is a vital concern to medicine, but also has strong economical, political and religious implications. To protect the consumer and prevent abuse, many governments regulate the manufacture, sale, and administration of medication. In the United States, the main body that regulates pharmaceuticals is the Food and Drug Administration and they enforce standards set by the United States Pharmacopoeia.In the European Union, the main body that regulates pharmaceuticals is the EMEA and they enforce standards set by the European Pharmacopoeia. Phase I Clinical Trials Studies intended principally to establish the initial safety profiles of product candidates. Because these studies are typically the first conducted in humans, they typically involve very small numbers (20-100) of healthy subjects or volunteers. Phase I trials can also help to determine safe dosage ranges, and to identify side effects, and very early evidence of effectiveness. Phase II Clinical Trials Studies that further calibrate the safety and begin to evaluate the efficacy of a product. These trials also help establish appropriate dosing levels. Phase II trials typically involve between 100-200 patients who suffer from the disease or condition that the drug is intended to prevent or treat. When possible, Phase II trials are "controlled" investigations, using the actual drug with one group of patients and a placebo with another group to help determine the effects of the drug. Phase III Clinical Trials In these studies, researchers strive to provide statistical confirmation of a product and identify common side effects. The goal of Phase III trials is to collect sufficient information to support an application for regulatory approval that will enable the drug or treatment to be used safely in the general population. Phase III trials include very large numbers (100s to 1,000s) of subjects. Phase IV Clinical Trials These studies evaluate further safety and efficacy questions for already-marketed products. Phase IV trials are conducted with specified patient populations. Plasma Blood plasma contains many vital proteins including fibrinogen, globulins and human serum albumin. Sometimes blood plasma may contain viral impurities which must be extracted through viral processing. A simple way to separate plasma from blood cells in a blood sample is by centrifugation. "Serum" refers to blood plasma in which clotting factors (such as fibrin) have been removed naturally by allowing the blood to clot prior to isolating the liquid component. Plasma resembles whey in appearance (transparent with a faint straw color). It is mainly composed of water, blood proteins, and inorganic electrolytes. It serves as transport medium for glucose, lipids, amino acids, hormones, metabolic end products, carbon dioxide (CO2) and oxygen (O2). The oxygen transport capacity and oxygen content of plasma is much lower than that of the hemoglobin in red blood cells; the CO2 will, however, increase under hyperbaric conditions. Plasma is the storage and transport medium of clotting factors. Its protein content is necessary to maintain the oncotic pressure of the blood, which "holds" the serum within the vessels. Plasmapheresis is a type of therapy involving separation of plasma from red blood cells. Pre-clinical Testing Rigorous testing of a lead candidate conducted in computer models, laboratory models and animals. In the United States, the FDA mandates pre-clinical testing to help determine whether or not the potential product warrants human clinical testing (e.g., dosage, ADME). Protein A type of molecule composed of amino acids and produced by genes. Proteins are required for the structure, function and regulation of the body's cells, tissues and organs. Each protein has a unique function; while most are essential to health, others may play a role in disease. Proteomics Proteomics is the large-scale study of proteins, particularly their structures and functions. Proteins are vital in living organisms, as they are the main components of the physiological pathways of cells. The term "proteomics" was coined to make an analogy with genomics, the study of the genes. The proteome of an organism is the set of proteins produced by it during its life, and its genome is its set of genes. The proteome of a cell under a particular stimulation is the set of proteins in it. Recombinant DNA A variety of techniques that molecular biologists use to manipulate or "recombine" DNA molecules to study gene expression. In the 1970s, Stanley Cohen, Ph.D. and Herbert Boyer, Ph.D. pioneered recombinant DNA technology. The technique is one of the fundamental technologies that gave rise to the modern biotechnology industry. Reproductive Cloning A technique that is designed to replicate an existing organism with the intent of creating a complete organism (i.e. animal or human). The manipulated cell is implanted into an animal or human uterus, where it develops into a replicated complete organism. While this technique has shown promise for use with animals (e.g., for use in producing pharmaceuticals) the biomedical research community and many other governmental and non-governmental organizations, including the Massachusetts Biotechnology Council, strongly oppose reproductive cloning of humans for safety and societal reasons. Ribosomes Complexes that are composed of ribonucleic acid (RNA) and proteins, and are the site of protein synthesis. RNA Ribonucleic acid (RNA) is a nucleic acid polymer consisting of nucleotide monomers, that acts as a messenger between DNA and ribosomes, and that is also responsible for making proteins out of amino acids.[1] RNA polynucleotides contain ribose sugars and predominantly uracil unlike deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), which contains deoxyribose and predominantly thymine. It is transcribed (synthesized) from DNA by enzymes called RNA polymerases and further processed by other enzymes. RNA serves as the template for translation of genes into proteins, transferring amino acids to the ribosome to form proteins, and also translating the transcript into proteins. Signal Transduction A biological process that describes the biochemical events that conduct the signal of a hormone or growth factor from the cell exterior, through the cell membrane, into the cytoplasm and to the nucleus. This process involves a number of molecules, including receptors and messengers (e.g., protein kinases). Somatic Cell All body cells, expect for the reproductive germ cells. Stem Cell Undifferentiated cells that have the potential to produce cells. The most basic stem cells, embryonic stem cells, have the potential to differentiate into any cell type. Stem cells are believed to have potential use in the treatment of many diseases and conditions by replacing dysfunctional cells with functional cells. This makes them vital to research for such applications as organ donation, or treatment of degenerative conditions (e.g., Parkinson's Disease, diabetes and various cancers). Structure-based Design A drug discovery technique that uses the three-dimensional structure of a target (e.g., a protein) determined by physical methods (e.g., X-ray crystallography, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) or computational techniques), to direct chemical synthesis of drug candidates. Target A biological site that, when analyzed, indicates a potential research pathway. Such sites often enable researchers to discover pharmaceuticals, biologics or diagnostics. Target identification A drug discovery term that refers to a biological site (e.g., an enzyme or receptor) that may provide a point of intervention for drug therapy. Target validation A drug discovery term that refers to the association between a particular molecule (e.g., protein) and a disease, such that a drug that binds appropriately to the molecule will treat that particular disease. Therapeutic Cloning A process for generating cells or tissues, by duplication, that may be used to treat disease or replace damaged tissue. Therapeutic cloning involves inserting DNA from somatic cells into another egg cell from which the DNA has been removed. The cloned cell is then grown in the laboratory with the goal of generating stem cells. Tissue array Tissue microarrays (also TMAs) consist of paraffin blocks in which up to 1000 separate tissue cores are assembled in array fashion to allow simultaneous histological analysis. The major limitations in molecular clinical analysis of tissues include the cumbersome nature of procedures, limited availability of diagnostic reagents and limited patient sample size. The technique of tissue microarray was developed to address these issues. Tissue bank Biomedical tissue is biological tissue used for organ transplantation. There is a large demand for these human tissue products and the supply can not keep up with this demand. Each country sets its own framework for ensuring the safety of human tissue products. In the US this is monitored by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Tissue micro arrays Tissue microarrays (also TMAs) consist of paraffin blocks in which up to 1000 separate tissue cores are assembled in array fashion to allow simultaneous histological analysis. The major limitations in molecular clinical analysis of tissues include the cumbersome nature of procedures, limited availability of diagnostic reagents and limited patient sample size. The technique of tissue microarray was developed to address these issues. Transfer RNA (tRNA) A type of RNA that is composed of sequences that are complementary to mRNA sequences, and translate nucleic information into protein information. Transgenic Animals The transfer of DNA from one animal species to another. Researchers often engineer transgenic animals, such as mice, to model a specific human disease (e.g., cancer and obesity), or goats, cows or pigs to produce human therapeutics or organs for transplantation. Transgenic Plants The transfer of cross-species traits via genetic engineering techniques to plants from unrelated plants, animals, bacteria or viruses. Transgenic plants may exhibit improved herbicidal tolerance, insect resistance and may even have applications for therapeutic protein manufacturing. U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) A federal agency whose mission is to enhance the quality of life for the American people by supporting production of agriculture to ensure a safe, affordable, nutritious and accessible food supply; to care for agricultural, forest and range lands; to support the sound development of rural communities; to provide economic opportunities for farm and rural residents; to expand global markets for agricultural and forest products and services; and to work to reduce hunger in America and throughout the world. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) The federal agency that provides leadership in the nation's environmental science, research, education and assessment efforts. The EPA works closely with other federal agencies, state and local governments, as well as Indian tribes, to develop and enforce regulations under existing environmental laws. The agency also works with industries and all levels of government in a wide variety of voluntary pollution prevention programs and energy conservation efforts. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) A federal consumer protection agency whose core mission is to promote and protect the public health by helping safe and effective products reach the market in a timely way, and by monitoring products for continued safety after they are in use. U.S. Patent & Trademark Office (PTO) A non-commercial federal agency that promotes the progress of science by administering the laws relating to patents and trademarks in order to secure, for limited times, the exclusive rights to their respective discoveries to inventors. Vaccine A product that stimulates the body's own defenses to either prevent or treat a disease. Historically, vaccines have been used to prevent infectious diseases (e.g., polio and smallpox). Researchers are now using similar techniques to harness the immune system to attempt to treat other conditions such as cancer and cardiovascular disease. Vector A self-replicating DNA molecule that transfers a DNA segment from itself to a host cell. Xenotransplantation The process of transplanting organs, cells or tissues between different species (e.g., animal organs transplanted to humans). Biotechnology is enabling scientists to genetically modify donor animals so that organs or other materials will not be rejected by the human immune system. This process may expand the number of available organs for transplantation.
E-Newsletter