Biosynthesize - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Verb}

molecular biology

To produce a chemical compound within a living organism by a biological process

Synonyms

produce biologically, synthesize.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
biosynthesize	Often used in biological and medical research to describe the creation of complex organic molecules through natural biological processes. Fungi are known to biosynthesize a wide array of secondary metabolites with antibiotic properties
synthesize	Used broadly to describe both natural and artificial processes of creating complex substances from simpler ones, suitable in both scientific and everyday language. Scientists are trying to synthesize a new drug to treat the disease
produce biologically	Employed in general discussions to describe how living organisms generate complex compounds and materials. Some bacteria can produce biologically potent toxins that affect other organisms

Word

Description / Examples

biosynthesize

Often used in biological and medical research to describe the creation of complex organic molecules through natural biological processes.

Fungi are known to biosynthesize a wide array of secondary metabolites with antibiotic properties

synthesize

Used broadly to describe both natural and artificial processes of creating complex substances from simpler ones, suitable in both scientific and everyday language.

Scientists are trying to synthesize a new drug to treat the disease

produce biologically

Employed in general discussions to describe how living organisms generate complex compounds and materials.

Some bacteria can produce biologically potent toxins that affect other organisms

Examples of usage

Plants biosynthesize a wide range of compounds such as pigments, vitamins, and hormones.
Microorganisms are used in the lab to biosynthesize antibiotics.
The ability to biosynthesize certain molecules is crucial for the survival of many organisms.

Interesting Facts

Science

Plants biosynthesize glucose through a process called photosynthesis, using sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide.
Humans and animals rely on biosynthesis to create essential compounds like hormones and vitamins from basic nutrients.
Some microorganisms are incredibly efficient at biosynthesizing complex molecules that can be used in medicine.

Applications in Technology

Synthetic biology is a field that uses biosynthesis principles to create new biological parts and systems.
Researchers are developing methods to biosynthesize fuels from algae, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Biosynthetic processes are used to produce biodegradable plastics, aiming to lessen environmental impacts.

Cultural Significance

The idea of biosynthesis has inspired artists and designers who create works that mimic natural processes.
Biosynthesis plays a role in traditional medicine, as cultures have used natural compounds derived from plants and animals for healing.

Literature

Biosynthesis concepts have appeared in speculative fiction, where writers explore the potential and ethics of living organisms engineered to produce new substances.
Scientific literature often discusses biosynthesis in the context of genetic engineering and its implications for future innovation.

Origin of 'biosynthesize'

Main points about word origin

The term 'biosynthesize' combines 'bio-' from Greek meaning life, and 'synthesize' from Greek for putting together.
It was first recorded in scientific literature during the mid-20th century as biology advanced and biochemistry became a field.

The term 'biosynthesize' is derived from the combination of 'bio-', meaning life, and 'synthesize', meaning to produce. It refers to the process of creating chemical compounds within living organisms through biological pathways. The concept of biosynthesis has been fundamental in understanding how organisms produce a wide variety of compounds essential for their survival and functioning.

Biosynthesize Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations