Cellectis S.A. (Paris:ALCLS), the French genome engineering specialist, has announced that the European Patent Office has today upheld European Patent EP 1 485 475 owned by Cellectis and relating to the invention of engineering methods for meganucleases. This method is based on the genetic fusion of meganuclease modules to obtain hybrid meganucleases. In the course of this opposition, the patent underwent a limitation of claims and Cellectis considers appealing this decision. This patent not only broadens the range of genetic targets for the meganucleases but also improves their production and vectorization.
This outcome illustrates the importance of the cutting edge technology developed by Cellectis and protects the integrity of Cellectis’ intellectual property.
Cellectis CEO André Choulika said, “This decision makes us even more determined in our constant fight to defend our intellectual property rights. Intellectual property is a key value of biotechnology companies and is the launch pad for their growth. Our position means that we are able to invest 80% of our income in very high added value research and development projects.”
To date, Cellectis holds a portfolio of 42 granted patents and more than 130 applications for additional patents pending.
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