The INPI (National Institute of Industrial Property) is responsible for various important registrations, including trademark, patent, and software registrations. Additionally, other organizations such as the National Library and the School of Fine Arts also perform registrations.
It's important to note that there is protection for cultivars, which are new plant varieties. This registration is directly made with the Ministry of Agriculture. It is essential that companies, especially startups, pay attention to this point. If a startup operates in the genetics field, it is imperative that it protects the genetics of its plants. This point is crucial, especially considering that in Piracicaba, for example, there is ESALQ, which produces a lot of quality genetics.
Within the biotechnology field, it's important to remember that not everything is eligible for protection. Human intervention in genetics is necessary for protection to be possible. If a discovery doesn't involve human intervention, it's not eligible for protection. An example of this is mint tea, which, even though it has medicinal properties, is not eligible for protection.
Often, a startup discovers a new genetic trait or a novelties in a plant that may be agro-climatic, suitable for a specific climate. In these cases, it's possible to patent and protect the new genetics or cultivar. This protection is important because there can be very different characteristics in a new genetic trait, such as greater resistance to pests or suitability for a specific climate.
In summary, it's essential that companies, especially startups, pay attention to protecting the genetics of their plants. It's possible to register with INPI and other organizations such as the National Library and the School of Fine Arts. Additionally, it's important to remember that not everything is eligible for protection, and human intervention in genetics is necessary for protection to be possible.