What is upstream & downstream in biotechnology?

In biotechnology, upstream and downstream refer to different stages in the production process of a biotechnological product.

Upstream processes involve the initial stages of production, such as cell culture, fermentation, and genetic engineering. This is where the raw materials are transformed into the desired product through various biological processes.

Downstream processes, on the other hand, involve the purification, separation, and recovery of the desired product from the culture or fermentation broth. This includes processes such as filtration, chromatography, and drying to isolate and concentrate the product.

Overall, upstream processes focus on the production and growth of the biological material, while downstream processes focus on the purification and recovery of the final product. Both upstream and downstream processes are crucial in the production of biotechnological products.

Upstream Biotechnology

- Refers to the processes that occur before a protein is produced.
- Includes:
- Gene cloning and manipulation
- Fermentation and cell culture
- Purification and isolation of the desired protein

Downstream Biotechnology

- Refers to the processes that occur after a protein is produced.
- Includes:
- Formulation and stabilization
- Packaging and distribution
- Quality control and testing
- Delivery and administration