Patenting Penicillium Strains

Penicillium species are a widespread source of biologically active compounds and enzymes which are exploited in biotechnologies. The ongoing discovery of new species, their biochemical and molecular characterization, and the application of the new findings in diverse industrial processes stimulate an increasing interest of patentees worldwide. An overview of the patents released in the last four years in agriculture, bioremediation, and in several industrial fields for the production of biofuels, food, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals is proposed for an exhaustive appreciation of the potential cues offered to inventors by these fungi.