Technological development and patent analysis: the case of biopharmacy in the world and in Latin America

ABSTRACT Pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and technological advances are currently a new paradigm with ample potential to provide therapeutic solutions to multiple diseases. The purpose of this study was to survey granted patents related to biopharmaceutical products. The most important results show that most of these inventions are concentrated in the United States, and European and Asian countries, and that US companies are the clear leaders in this area of knowledge, reaffirming its position as one of the most important technological markets in the world. Additionally, the technological classes, established according to search criteria, that have shown the most progress over time has to do with medicinal preparations containing antigens or antibodies, as well as those associated with peptides. Finally, the role of the Latin American market is not relevant for the production of this group of technologies; consequently, it is important to define strategies for their inclusion in countries in the region and to promote cooperation in terms of research and development. This course of action will provide the region with the possibility of increasing technological capabilities that will allow it to innovate within the sector.