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Patents and the experimental space: social, legal, and geographical dimensions of 3D bioprinting

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journal contribution
posted on 2023-06-07, 07:26 authored by Edison Bicudo, Alex Faulkner, Phoebe LiPhoebe Li
The entanglements between social creativity, legal instruments and global policies become particularly clear in emerging technological fields where such relations are being established or improvised. In this paper, an analysis of such entanglements is delivered, focusing on 3D bioprinting. This technique amounts to the use of robotic, computer-controlled devices called bioprinters, with which bioactive structures are manufactured, with potential medical applications. Bioprinting has triggered manifold relations and processes here grasped with the concept of experimental space. It is claimed that the experimental space has several dimensions, three of which are analysed here. First, there is a legal dimension formed by the multiplication of patent documents making reference to each other and forming a discursive network. Second, there is a social dimension, as the experimental space is populated by innovative companies and universities involved with bioprinting. Finally, the geographical dimension derives from the spatial processes and global geography of bioprinting. The study of these three dimensions is underpinned by a quantitative analysis of bioprinting patents filed from 2001 to 2019 and found on two specialized websites (The Lens and Google Patents). Furthermore, fieldwork was conducted in three countries (the UK, Brazil, and Italy), involving interviews with academics and entrepreneurs exploring bioprinting.

Funding

Biomodifying technologies: Governing converging research in the life sciences; G2501; LEVERHULME TRUST; RPG-2017-330

History

Publication status

  • Published

File Version

  • Accepted version

Journal

International Review of Law, Computers & Technology

ISSN

1360-0869

Publisher

Taylor & Francis

Page range

1-22

Department affiliated with

  • International Relations Publications

Full text available

  • Yes

Peer reviewed?

  • Yes

Legacy Posted Date

2020-07-07

First Open Access (FOA) Date

2021-12-26

First Compliant Deposit (FCD) Date

2020-07-06

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