BIOTECHNOLOGY AND INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS
Journal: Publication No.2 2024
Abstract
Continuous advancements in biotechnology have brought about significant transformations in society,
particularly in the fields of molecular biology and genetics, where biotechnology has introduced new approaches
to medicine and healthcare. Subsequently, the vast potential of biotechnological developments to yield commercial
outcomes has led to the intersection of Biotechnology with Intellectual Property rights, where industries and
intellectual property developers aim to incorporate new biotechnological inventions through IP protection. The
intertwining of Intellectual Property legislation and biotechnology has posed numerous legal and ethical
challenges at the international level, which are also reflected in the domestic legal framework. This paper aims to
shed light on the understanding of biotechnology by exploring the legal framework regulating biotechnological
patents. Furthermore, the paper presents discussions on the necessity of patent protection for biotechnology and
the legal hurdles identified for such protection. By analyzing the implementation of Directive 98/44/EC concerning
the legal protection of biotechnological inventions within the European Union framework, as well as legislative
developments in a comparative scope across different jurisdictions, and considering scientific perspectives along
with judicial practice in this field, the paper aims to provide insight into this complex legal framework by focusing
on the balance between fostering innovation through patents and ensuring access to essential biotechnological
advancements.
Keywords: biotechnology, intellectual property, patents, microbiological process, cloning, public order
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Revista Studime Juridike Nr. 2, 2024
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