Intellectual Property Rights and Gene-Based Technologies for Animal Production and Health

Abstract

Intellectual property rights (IPR) are legal and institutional devicesto protect creations of the mind. With respect to gene-based innovation,the most significant IPR is patents. Appropriate patent regimes have thepotential to foster innovation in animal biotechnology and the transferof gene-based technologies. Inappropriate patent systems may becounter-productive. Indeed, many critics are doubtful that the currentinternational patent standards, based as they are on a combination ofthe United States of America' and European regimes, can help countriesthat lack the capacity to do much life science and biotechnologyresearch to become more innovative or contribute to the acquisition,absorption and, where desirable, the adaptation of new gene-basedtechnologies from outside. Present legislation in Europe, North Americaand internationally is considered, together with the controversies andimportant policy questions for developing countries, and the choicesfacing countries seeking to enhance their scientific and technologicalcapacities in these areas.