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Military units and disaster responders face new and dangerous threats from biological and chemical agents. Biotechnology-produced enzymes can now break down toxic chemicals, including nerve gases such as sarin and somain, in a way that is effective, convenient and enviromentally benign. These enzymes can be added to water and sprayed at the site of attack.
Scientists are also modifying mustard
plants to serve as "sentinel plants"
that warn of chemical warfare agents or
animal pathogens such as anthrax.
Recently, a Danish company announced
it had developed a plant that can be
used to detect land mines by changing
colors when its roots encounter a mine.
DNA fingerprinting, a biotech
process, has transformed
criminal investigation
and forensic medicine,
as well as afforded
significant advances
in anthropology
and wildlife
management.
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