Chapter 26 – Translating Science to the Bedside: The Innovation Pipeline

Publisher Summary This chapter focuses on patent laws and rights and, to a lesser extent, copyright laws and rights. A patent is granted by the government and gives its owner the right to exclude others from making, using, or selling the invention for a limited period of time. In addition, the government supports the protection of intellectual property by patents and copyrights for several reasons. First is the fact that patents and copyrights provide economic incentives for inventors and creators. Second, for an idea to be commercialized it must be developed into a product that can be sold to the public. Third, patents and copyrights prompt the public dissemination of ideas that help sustain a creative and vibrant economy. The chapter introduces translational and clinical investigators to principles of translating science to the patient bedside, i.e., the innovation pipeline, by responding to frequently asked questions. Given the realities of the marketplace and the protection of ideas and innovations, Academic Health Centers (AHCs) can act as living laboratories by working with industry. These centers can also engage in entrepreneurship and for the clinical evaluation of innovative products. Finally, a heightened level of activity between AHCs and industry creates a strong need to manage conflict of interest issues.