Analyzing the impact of the European unitary patent system on worldwide biotechnology

Ignacio Belda; Gerardo Penas; Domingo Marquina; Antonio Santos

doi:10.1016/j.tibtech.2014.06.003

Analyzing the impact of the European unitary patent system on worldwide biotechnology

Trends Biotechnol. 2014 Aug;32(8):393-5. doi: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2014.06.003.

Authors

Ignacio Belda¹, Gerardo Penas², Domingo Marquina¹, Antonio Santos³

Affiliations

¹ Department of Microbiology, Biology Faculty, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain.
² Department of Utility Models, Designs, and Semiconductors, Spanish Patent and Trademark Office, 28071 Madrid, Spain.
³ Department of Microbiology, Biology Faculty, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain. Electronic address: ansantos@ucm.es.

PMID: 25059513
DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2014.06.003

Abstract

Following the deepest recession in generations, the European Union (EU) has proposed a plan to rebuild its economy that includes restructuring of its science and innovation system. In this context, the EU has rolled out a unitary patent system to improve technological development across European countries. This decision brings to light a new scientific and administrative scenario that will change the rules of innovation in Europe, with consequences for global biotechnology.

MeSH terms

Biotechnology / legislation & jurisprudence*
European Union
Humans
Intellectual Property
International Cooperation
Patents as Topic / legislation & jurisprudence*