 Biochemists identify biological problems then develop and apply appropriate techniques to solve them at the molecular level.
Biochemists study the most basic of life processes; for example, identifying the way in which DNA, which carries the genetic information, is transferred between cells and can be manipulated. This has led to the development of new technologies such as Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering. The resulting recombinant DNA technology has formed the basis of modern biotechnology (e.g. production of human insulin), medical developments (e.g. prenatal diagnosis and genetic counseling) and forensic science (e.g. DNA fingerprinting).
 DNA directs the production of proteins. These have diverse functions, such as catalyzing biological reactions (enzymes), carrying oxygen round the body (hemoglobin), protecting us from infection (antibodies) and holding us together (collagen). Using both simple and high-technology methods, biochemists work out how these proteins function. Biochemists also develop methods for making use of proteins, such as enzymes in biotechnology and antibodies in hormone analysis.
 With knowledge of the basic molecular mechanisms, biochemists study how life processes are integrated to allow individual cells to function and interact to form complex organisms. They work with all sorts of organisms, from viruses and bacteria to plants and man. These are just a few of the areas. It would take a whole book, in fact many books, to do justice to the multitude of roles of biochemists.
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