“A patent is an exclusive right granted for an invention” – WIPO. Patent in the field of Biology is also known as ‘Biopatent’ and it is granted by the government to an inventor for an invention in Biology field such as genetically modified organisms (GMOs), cell lines, organoids, isolated bacteria, processes utilizing enzymes or other microbes, and many more. Obtaining a patent for a biological invention adds up extra requirements and/or efforts such as the biological invention must be a resultant from technology being intervened in the natural environment of that particular biological form and must be demonstrating the practical applicability of that particular biological invention, along with basic requirements to get an invention patented.
One such recent case is TruBeet® by Bio-gen Extracts got patented in India. This patent recognized the unique formulation and manufacturing process in making dietary nitrate supplement having high concentration of inorganic nitrate obtained from beetroot (a biological form, that is plant).
Share your opinion on patenting biological inventions and enlist some more examples of biological inventions which got patented in India and/or worldwide.
I think biopatent is a great initiative by the government to encourage creative and innovative ideas. Thank you for this concise post I will read more on this
Patenting biological inventions is essential for encouraging innovation while ensuring ethical use of biological resources. Biopatents protect the intellectual effort behind creating novel organisms, formulations, or bioprocesses, but they also demand strict proof of human intervention and practical utility. The TruBeet patent is a strong example of how value-added biological products can gain recognition. Globally and in India, several notable biopatents exist such as genetically modified Bt cotton, recombinant insulin, CRISPR based gene editing tools, tissue engineered skin substitutes, microbial strains used in bioremediation, and enzyme based industrial processes. Such patents drive progress in biotechnology while safeguarding creators’ rights.
Insightful article indeed. It clearly explains the concept of biopatents and smartly uses TruBeet as a relevant example to link theory with practice.
Patenting biological inventions plays a crucial role in promoting innovation, especially in biotechnology, agriculture, and medicine. While it encourages research and commercial development, it also raises ethical concerns about ownership of life forms and accessibility. Examples of patented biological inventions include Bt Cotton, Golden Rice, and insulin-producing genetically modified bacteria, all of which have significantly contributed to scientific advancement worldwide.
