The CRISPR/Cas9 system for genome editing has been hailed as the
biggest biotech breakthrough of the century – some say
equivalent to discovering the structure of DNA or developing PCR.
The CRISPR/Cas9 system promises a precise, relatively simple and
versatile method for introducing targeted modifications into DNA.
Already, investment in this technology has been huge since it has
wide applicability in the lab and may even have a role in
eradicating genetic disorders in humans and other animals.
The question of who owns and can control the use of the
CRISPR/Cas9 system is consequently of pressing importance and is
under intense debate. It is claimed to have been developed
independently by two separate research groups – both of which
sought patent protection and published data from their work
creating a complex IP situation, as the patent filing and article
publication dates are closely interweaved.
