First in a series: The ABCs of Biotech for Christians

The biomed and biotech sciences are far beyond the layperson’s understanding. Yet, as Christians, we need to be selective about which of their inventions to endorse and to seek out for loved ones or ourselves for healthcare help.

Perhaps if we can learn a little at a time, we will feel less overwhelmed when we must make a decision about a technology or procedure that is unclear to us from a Christian standpoint. We will be able to give an opinion when asked.

In this blog series we will look at diseases, treatments, research and lots more relating to biomed and biotech quests, successes and dangers.

We are asking: How does God judge this practice or research area? It will be a random study, using the alphabet as the construct for topics. I hope to post once a week.

Let’s start with some definitions, mostly from internet (www) search and dictionaries:

Biology

The natural science that involves the study of life and living organisms, including their physical structure, chemical composition, function, development and evolution— unless a Christian rejects the theory of evolution and instead pursues these studies from the vantage ground of divine creation, which will yield much more insightful results.

Biomedical

Application of natural sciences, especially biology and physiology, to clinical medicine. Example: Using sound waves in research and treatment.

Physiology

The branch of biology that deals with the normal functions of living organisms and their parts.

Biotechnology

At its simplest, biotechnology is technology based on biology. Biotechnology harnesses cellular and biomolecular processes to develop technologies and products that help improve our lives and the health of our planet. Example: Research focusing on microbiome—the combined genetic material of the microorganisms in a particular environment— for developing new diagnostics, new therapies and “probiotic” products to prevent dangerous microbe imbalances.

Next week: A is for autism...