Patent landscape analysis of mRNA Covid-19 vaccine technology: examining the role of biotech companies, public research and universities

This chapter analyzes the patent landscape of the mRNA Covid-19 vaccine technology. It shows the growth of patents in this field, the share of patents held by various biotechnological companies and the important role of universities and research centers. This chapter also provides initial evidence regarding the growth of patent litigation cases and infringement actions caused by the start of large-scale production. The chapter discusses two critical issues. (1) The role of university patents and the link between scientific research in universities and public research centers and the commercialization and development of the final products. (2) The fragmentation of intellectual property and how, in these circumstances, it could increase transaction costs and barriers to entry.