Both legislators and the Boards of Appeal of the European Patent Office have invested considerable effort over the last two decades to adjust the law and practice governing life science inventions to the rapidly changing technological landscape. This book provides an introduction to life science patent practice and jurisdiction in Europe according to PCT, EPC and secondary EU law.

Its aim is to help experts and corporations in the field of life sciences to convert their research into protective, enforceable rights in Europe. It conveys a sense of the requirements for patentability and the issues influencing patent enforcement by presenting illustrative examples of relevant decisions and claims. Thus, while clearly addressing patent professionals, the book serves as a starting point for readers requiring general guidance as to the factors influencing patent protection for life science inventions, and examples of claim language used.

Where the first edition focused primarily on biotechnological subject matter, the second edition addresses the broader field of life sciences. It also includes a new chapter on the enforcement of patent rights throughout Europe and an outline of the forthcoming Unitary Patent and Unified Patent Court system.


Franz-Josef Zimmer, Steven M Zeman, Jens Hammer and Klara Goldbach are patent attorneys, European Patent Attorneys and European Trade Mark Attorneys in Munich.
Bernd Allekotte is Attorney at Law in Munich.