The United States Patent and Trademark Office “USPTO” is launching the “Patents 4 Patients” initiative, which will provide an accelerated review for methods of cancer treatments.  Effective on June 29, 2016 the new “Cancer Immunotherapy Pilot Program” will run for twelve (12) months from its effective date and will cut in half the time it takes to review patent applications in cancer therapy (aiming to meet the goal of having a final decision within 12 months of special status being granted).

This “fast track” initiative will be open to any applicant, including bio-tech companies, universities, and large pharmaceutical firms, as well as entities that may have products already in FDA approved clinical trials.

For more information about the USPTO’s Patents 4 Patients program, please refer to the Federal Register Notice.

Cancer is undoubtedly a disease that touches all our lives. Ending cancer as we know it requires the formation of new alliances and the USPTO is proud to be a part of that team.

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