ETHICAL LIMITS ON BIOTECHNOLOGICAL PATENTS

As fundamental changes are implemented to article 18, item III of the Brazilian Industrial Property Law, thus enabling the expansion of patenting in biotechnology and therefore contributing to the protection of living beings, it will be inevitably the outbreak of numerous discussions in the ethical field. Accordingly, this study aims to analyze the possible limits that shall appear to the patenting of life. Concerning its methodology, it is a basic and qualitative research that intends to generate discussions and new knowledge useful for the advancement of science. As regards to the objectives, this is an exploratory analysis that provides greater familiarity with the subject. Ultimately, in terms of technical procedures, we used the bibliographical research metodology, in order to explain and discuss the theme based on national and international theoretical references, published in books, scientific articles, theses, as well as extensive documentary research on laws, treaties and jurisprudence. Finally, this paper is based on the deductive method, in which assumptions raised from the authors of the theoretical study contributed to the belief that the choice for a strong system that stimulates and guarantees innovation is essential, but ethical limits must exist to ensure the dignity and integrity of the human being.