Early stage? Little finance? No proof? Diffuse ownership? Three EPO case studies review how layer by layer IP creates a foundation for ventures in one of the most complex fields of innovation: fighting cancer

In the early inspired stages of discovery, most concepts are usually far from market with little funding, no proof and a diffuse outlook in terms of ownership. IP creates a solid basis by establishing the rights of the founders and how they can engage with business partners or users. In terms of cancer treatments, a core or platform patent is usually the first step, establishing exclusivity and securing time to develop and test the technology while exploring the market.

Options for the most promising uses are subsequently investigated, often resulting in more specific product patents down the value chain, as well as the accumulation of a portfolio around trade secrets, materials, prototypes and designs. As a product evolves between technology push and market pull, a new treatment will coalesce as a brand underpinned by a trade mark. Extra value is created at this stage too, with artificial intelligence used to track metrics on how a treatment performs and what can be improved next.