3.4.5 Patentability

Without doubt, private companies have invested much money and energy in the development of xenotransplantation. The application for a patent is therefore a logical step for such companies. Patents, however, lead to higher costs for the consumers, in comparison to non-patented products. Even though there is no moral objection to patents, as such, it is important to guarantee that the recipients will have equal access to healthcare, without any form of discrimination and impediments based on higher costs [23: Pontifical Academy for Life. Prospects for xenotransplantation scientific aspects and ethical considerations. Vatican City 2001.].