IP: Navigating the Divide

A closer look at drugs, medical devices, research & patent litigation.

March 12, 2013

Academic and noncommercial basic research has always been an engine for innovation, particularly in the areas of medicine and drugs. The extent to which patents may touch noncommercial research is critically important, whether to spur innovation by offering a reward, or to limit the use of patented technology for basic research under the threat of infringement suits. At the same time, distinctions between noncommercial basic research and commercial development are not so clear. Perhaps surprisingly, applied commercial drug and medical device research has more protection from patent infringement litigation than noncommercial research does. The U.S. Supreme Court is set to touch on the question of the patentability of research-based advancements with its upcoming review of the Myriad decision. For now, patent owners and researchers should look to previous lower court decision and emerging technology transfer best practices for guidance.

The articles on our website include some of the publications and papers authored by our attorneys, both before and after they joined our firm. The content of these articles should not be taken as legal advice. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views or official position of Robins Kaplan LLP.

Disclaimer

Jake M. Holdreith

Partner

Managing Partner, Minneapolis Office
Member of Executive Board

Jamie R. Kurtz

Partner

Co-Chair, Health Care Litigation Group

Back to Top