Modern analytical biotechnology is focused on the use of a set of
enabling platform technologies that provide contemporary,
state-of-the-art tools for genomics, proteomics, metabolomics, drug
discovery, screening, and analysis of natural product molecules. Thus,
analytical biotechnology covers all areas of bioanalysis from biochips
and nano-chemistry to biology and high throughput screening. Moreover,
it aims to apply advanced automation and micro fabrica- tion technology
to the development of robotic and fluidic devices as well as integrated
systems. This book focuses on enhancement technology development by
promoting cross-disciplinary approaches directed toward solving key
problems in biology and medicine. The scope thus brings under one
umbrella many different techniques in allied areas. The purpose is to
support and teach the fundamental principles and practical uses of major
instrumental techniques. Major platforms are the use of immobilized
molecules in biotechnology and bioanalysis, im- munological techniques,
immunological strip tests, fluorescence detection and confocal
techniques, optical and electrochemical biosensors, biochips, micro
dotting, novel transducers such as nano clusters, atomic force
microscopy based techniques and analysis in complex media such as
fermentation broth, plasma and serum. Techniques related to HPLC,
capillary electrophoresis, gel electrophoresis, and mass spectrometry
have not been included in this book but will be covered by further
publications. Fundamentals in analytical biotechnology include basic and
practical aspects of characterizing and analyzing DNA, proteins, and
small metabolites.
