Dramatic recent expansion of intellectual property protection for biotechnology research tools has led to concerns that future innovation will be blocked unless action is taken to preserve access to, and freedom to operate with, those tools that are important for further research and development.

A team of scientists has developed an "open-source" alternative to one of the most effective - but patent-protected - ways of genetically modifying plants.

Intellectual property (IP) is often the most valued asset of biotech firms, especially startups.

Biotech companies face the challenge of cutting costs to make their resources last through the economic downturn, while continuing to seek international patent protection for their inventions to ensure long-term viability.