Microbiome

IP protection to support sustainable commercial development of microbiome-targeting applications. Discovering the influence of microorganisms on health, disease and wellbeing.

Microbiome targeting technology is a rapidly emerging, complex sector which improves human, animal, and crop health and well-being. Having actively advised on a full-range of IP matters involving manipulation and analysis of microbiomes for almost two decades, HGF has one of the most experienced teams in this area throughout Europe.  

Specialising in therapeutic, diagnostic, nutraceutical, cosmetic and agricultural application, as well as related bioinformatics-powered innovations, the team is well versed in the challenges and opportunities for protecting and commercialising the whole spectrum of microbiome-related inventions, and assists the full range of microbiome-focused companies in developing robust IP strategies, including IP protection, freedom to operate, licensing, European patent opposition and litigation strategies.

Latest updates

Agritech Thymes: The EPO Looks at the Morality and Patentability of Therapeutics Derived from Traditional Knowledge

This case (T2510/181) heard before the Technical Boards of Appeal at the EPO in May 2024 relates to the morality and novelty of substances of a natural origin. The invention …

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Agritech Thymes: Exploring the Agritech IP landscape – past trends and future insights

The agrifood patent landscape analysis recently reported by WIPO provides interesting insights into key areas of innovation and the IP strategies being adopted. The agrifood industry, encompassing both agritech and …

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Agritech Thymes: One of Europe’s oldest grape plant variety rights is invalidated

The Italian courts recently heard a case of infringement of a Plant Variety Right (PVR) held by Sun World International LLC protecting the Sugraone grape variety and of the corresponding …

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New Blog Series - Agritech Thymes: A brief look at public prior use of plants in the US

In the US, plants can be protected by utility patents, plant patents and/or plant variety rights. Both types of patent are subject to the same novelty rules of USC §102, …

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What's Next for CAR Cell Therapy?

The first generation CAR T cell was discovered in 1993 when the variable region of an antibody was fused to the constant regions of a T cell receptor.  Now, 20 …

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Event - 30th January 2024

CAR-TCR Summit, Europe 2024

HGF are proud Event Partners of CAR-TCR Europe, which is due to go ahead from 27th – 29th February at ExCeL, Royal Victoria Dock in London. This is the European hub …

Event details

First CRISPR therapy approved for use in the UK

In an unprecedented move, the MHRA has approved a CRISPR gene editing therapy ‘Casgevy’  for the treatment of sickle cell disease and beta-thalassaemia in patients with recurrent vaso-occlusive crises. The Casgevy …

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Event - 23rd - 24th April 2024

Microbiome & Probiotic R&D & Business Collaboration Forum: Europe

The 12th Microbiome & Probiotics R&D and Business Forum will take place from the 23rd-24th April at the Postillion Convention Centre in the Hague, Netherlands. This world-renowned event will see …

Event details

Let's talk

If you would like to discuss how HGF could help you, contact one of our microbiome specialists.