Models of Technology Transfer for Genome-Editing Technologies.

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Intellectual Property Law
• Technology Transfer

Background:

• Fundamental genome editing technologies (meganucleases, ZFNs, TALENs, CRISPR) originated in universities.
• University patenting aimed to drive commercial development, leading to varied technology transfer approaches.
• This landscape presents unique challenges for research tools and intellectual property management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the patent landscape of genome editing technologies.
• To analyze the diverse technology transfer models used for commercialization.
• To assess the impact of these models and the evolving nature of the technology.

Main Methods:

• Review of patent estates for genome editing technologies.
• Analysis of various technology transfer models (e.g., public domain, open access, licensing).
• Examination of historical and policy contexts of university patenting.

Main Results:

• A diversity of technology transfer models has emerged, including public domain, open access, and various licensing strategies.
• This diversity fosters experimentation and competition, termed a "federalism model" of technology transfer.
• Third-party licensing intermediaries have become prominent and successful.
• Rapid technological advancement may diminish the long-term significance of current patent estates and licensing.

Conclusions:

• The "federalism model" of technology transfer, characterized by diverse approaches and competition, has effectively commercialized genome editing innovations.
• The dynamic nature of genome editing technology suggests that patent estates and licensing regimes will likely evolve or be superseded by new commercialization mechanisms.