University of California has received the eighth patent certificate on the emerging CRISPR technology in cooperation with the University of Vienna. This fascinating technology has revolutionized genetic modification and is predicted to bring about tremendous advances in therapeutic processes.
The CRISPR genetic modification technology has been developed by a multi-disciplinary team including Jennifer Doudna, Martin Jinek, Emmanuelle Charpentier, and Krzysztof Chylinski, and given the potentials of this technology, there is an increasing competition between the main players of its development and commercialization: Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Harvard University, and the University of California (along with the University of Vienna). Considering the numerous activities of the University of California, successful application and obtaining successive certificates, the university seems to have surpassed its rivals. The recent patent application, filed in the US Patent and Trademark Office on November 27, 2018, has recently been granted the patent number US10351878.
According to a recent statement, the patent family of the University of California in CRISPR field consists of eight patents that incorporate gene modification in any environment, including plant cells, animals, and even human beings. The new patent of the university, as the newest member of this portfolio, specifically focuses on cell genetic modification. Pointing out the benefits of this emerging technology, Dr Eldora Ellison, a patent strategist at the University of California specializing in CRISPR, says "the multiplicity and wide range of patents associated with the achievements of Doudna/Charpentier team clearly indicates the importance of this technology and the many facilities it will provide for the welfare of humans. We are pleased with the acquisition of a new certificate that can make progress in the health of a greater part of society. "
The protection of the innovative achievements of the research team is not unique to the United States and they seek protection at the international level. In addition to eight patents granted in the US, the group has patents in EPO representing more than 30 countries, as well as certificates in Britain, China, Australia, New Zealand and Mexico, which clearly illustrates the importance of this technology and its potential for income and commercialization. To earn this valuable asset, the University of California has handed over an exclusive license to Caribou Biosciences Co. to extensively commercialize the technology, in line with licensing agreements signed with other private companies.
