Genotyping is the process of determining the alleles at an individual’s genetic locus that may be any inherited DNA sequence in the genome, including protein encoding genes and polymorphic markers. The genotyping result, however, depends on the type of genotype and the technology deployed and the genetic data can be used to find out how mapped markers are shared between related individuals. Linked genetic markers thus can help predict the risk of a disease. Genotyping is also a very powerful tool for crop and animal improvement as it can help to identify useful traits of nutritional or economic significance.

The Special Feature in the current issue of WISTA: IPR Biotechnology deals with genotyping technology that has enabled generation of a vast amount of genotypic information to search disease related genes or draw maps based on the single nucleotide polymorphism. The feature also gives brief description of some nine recent patents on genotyping granted mostly in the USA.

The ‘Perspective’ relates to antibiotic resistance that some bacteria develop by acquiring genes encoding proteins that protect them from the effect of antibiotic. Many of the antibiotics used in humans and animals to treat bacterial infections specifically inhibit ribosome activity in the disease- bacteria. However scientists at the University of Illinois, Chicago have recently discovered a signaling mechanism in the bacterial ribosome that detects proteins that activate genes for antibiotic resistance.Moreover, during companies are also now responding to the threat and some new antibiotics are being developed.

The feature ‘On to Excellence’ profiles Silence Therapeutics of UK and briefly describes its activities, including the intellectual property portfolio it holds.

Other features covered are: Scan Around the Globe; Watch-Out IPR; In Focus; Strategic Alliances; Clinical Trials; Awards; Fine Tuning; and Legal Scene.

We welcome comments and suggestions.

Dr K V Swaminathan