THE EVOLUTION OF PATENT LAW IN BIOTECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATIONS: BALANCING INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS WITH ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS IN GENETIC ENGINEERING


Chandima Shyamali Tennakoon
Attorney-at-Law, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Sri Lanka
Abstract
The intersection of biotechnology and patent law has been a subject of considerable debate and evolution over the past few decades. As genetic engineering and biotechnological innovations continue to advance at a rapid pace, the question of how to balance intellectual property rights with ethical considerations has become increasingly complex. This abstract provides a concise overview of the evolution of patent law in the context of biotechnological innovations, highlighting the challenges, ethical dilemmas, and the need for a delicate equilibrium between innovation and societal concerns. Historically, patent law aimed to incentivize innovation by granting inventors exclusive rights to their creations for a limited time. In the realm of biotechnology, this meant that genes, genetically modified organisms, and methods for genetic engineering became patentable subjects. This approach initially spurred investment in research and development, leading to groundbreaking discoveries and advancements in the field of biotechnology. However, as genetic engineering techniques progressed, ethical considerations emerged. The commodification of life forms, the potential for genetic discrimination, and the environmental implications of genetically modified organisms raised concerns among policymakers, bioethicists, and the public. Consequently, the evolution of patent law in biotechnological innovations has necessitated a shift towards addressing these ethical issues. One significant milestone in this evolution was the landmark Supreme Court case of Diamond v. Chakrabarty in 1980. The Court ruled that living organisms engineered by humans could be patented, setting a precedent for patenting genetically modified organisms. This decision marked the inception of a more comprehensive approach to biotech patent law. However, it also ignited debates over the ethical implications of granting patents on life forms. Subsequently, patent offices and legislative bodies worldwide began to grapple with the ethical dimensions of biotechnology. Guidelines and restrictions on patentability in biotech were developed to prevent the patenting of certain types of genetic material, particularly those found in nature or involving human genes associated with health. These measures aimed to strike a balance between fostering innovation and respecting ethical boundaries. Furthermore, international agreements like the Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) set global standards for patent protection while allowing member states some flexibility to establish safeguards in biotechnology patent law to address ethical concerns. The evolution of patent law in biotechnological innovations underscores the ongoing tension between promoting innovation and addressing ethical considerations. Striking the right balance is crucial to ensure that the benefits of genetic engineering and biotechnology are realized while safeguarding against potential abuses and ethical dilemmas. It requires continuous dialogue among stakeholders, including scientists, policymakers, bioethicists, and the public, to shape patent laws that foster innovation in biotechnology while respecting the boundaries of ethical norms. In conclusion, the evolution of patent law in biotechnological innovations has been characterized by a delicate dance between promoting intellectual property rights and confronting ethical concerns. This abstract provides a glimpse into the dynamic landscape of biotech patent law, highlighting the need for a balanced approach that allows for innovation while safeguarding ethical considerations in the field of genetic engineering.
Keywords: Biotechnological, Innovations ,Patent Law , Ethica, Considerations , Genetic Engineering
Journal Name :
EPRA International Journal of Research & Development (IJRD)

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Published on : 2024-02-06

Vol : 9
Issue : 2
Month : February
Year : 2024
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