Intellectual Property Rights for Nanotechnology in Agriculture

Nanoscience studies biological properties of materials at the nanoscale. Nanotechnology research develops improved materials, devices, systems and therapeutics. Nanomaterials can be protected for their intellectual property rights by innovators. However, due to the interdisciplinary nature of nanotechnology, there is a risk of overlapping patent claims and lack of distinction between nano-based and traditional patents. Scientists also must solve ethical and social issues, from health to environmental risk and consumer perception.