EXPLOITING THE EFFECTS OF HIGH HYDROSTATIC-PRESSURE IN BIOTECHNOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS

Applying hydrostatic pressure to biological systems and processes can alter their characteristics. In addition to its use as a basic researc h tool for investigating the kinetics and thermodynamics of biological systems at the molecular level, the application of pressure is also b eing used to modify the properties of biological materials to preserve or improve their qualities. This article reviews the principles under lying the observed effects of applied pressure on biological systems, and discusses current and potential application of pressure in biotech nological processes.