Dr. Philipp Marchand
Partner, European, Swiss, and German Patent Attorney
Discover how patent protection drives innovation in fighting antimicrobial resistance (AMR), encouraging collaboration, research investment and global access to life-saving interventions.
The rapid emergence and spread of antimicrobial resistance pose significant challenges to global health, threatening the effectiveness of existing antibiotics and other antimicrobial agents. Addressing this crisis requires considered innovation in the development of new drugs, diagnostics and therapies. Patent protection plays a critical role in fostering innovation by incentivising investment in research and development.
Benefits of the patent system
Patents grant exclusive rights to inventors, enabling pharmaceutical companies and research institutions to recover not only the initial investment costs associated with research and development, but also to potentially earn profits by outlicensing and commercial sales. Without patent protection, organisations have less motivation to invest in risky and costly drug development, potentially leading to a stagnation of new therapeutic options.
Patents can also facilitate synthesis between academia, industry and governments by providing a framework for licensing and technology transfer. This collaborative approach accelerates the development, testing and distribution of new antimicrobials. Patents also promote transparency and knowledge sharing, which are vital for global efforts to combat AMR, especially in underserved regions where access to innovative treatments is limited.
To maximise the benefits of the patent system, policymakers must create a balanced
legal framework that encourages innovation while ensuring equitable access to vital medicine.
Balancing access and incentives with patents
While some critics argue that the patent system can hinder access to life-saving medicines, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, balancing patent rights with public health needs is essential. Mechanisms such as voluntary licensing, patent pools and compulsory licenses can help ensure affordability and access without undermining incentives for innovation.
Patent protection is indispensable in the fight against antimicrobial resistance and infectious diseases. It drives the discovery of new drugs, fosters collaboration and ultimately contributes to improved public health outcomes worldwide. To maximise the benefits of the patent system, policymakers must create a balanced legal framework that encourages innovation while ensuring equitable access to vital medicine.
VOSSIUS is a leading European intellectual property law firm with significant experience in the life sciences sector. We work with numerous clients, from startups to large companies, to support the development of novel therapies against infectious diseases and microbial resistance.
