A biofiltration device aimed to treat the Ebola virus, for which Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear LLP attorneys obtained key patents, was selected as one of Time’s “25 Best Inventions of 2014.” The magazine’s annual list highlights new technology that makes the world “better” and “smarter.” Other inventions chosen for the prestigious list include new technology enabling wireless electricity, Microsoft’s Surface Pro 3 laptop, bananas engineered to prevent blindness in Africa, and BMW’s first electric car.
Attorneys Eric Furman, Ph.D., Brenden Gingrich, Ph.D. and Mark Marsden, Ph.D. are working to secure additional patents on behalf of San Diego-based client Aethlon Medical. The Hemopurifier device, a specially designed cartridge that attaches to a dialysis machine, was recently used to treat – and effectively cure – an Ebola patient in Germany. The technology involved, which employs a lectin filter to trap Ebola virus from the blood as it flows through the dialysis machine, may well be used in the future to treat HIV and Hepatitis-C infections.
This week, Aethlon announced the successful results of its first human clinical study, which took place in India, and is now preparing to launch its first human clinical studies in the United States.
“It’s immensely gratifying to know that our team was able to help Aethlon Medical secure protection for a device with the potential to improve the lives of millions of people,” said Eric Furman.
With over 275 lawyers and scientists nationwide, Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear LLP dedicates its practice to all aspects of intellectual property law including litigation. Consistently ranked among the top intellectual property firms worldwide, Knobbe Martens serves a diverse group of clients from multinational corporations to emerging businesses of all stages. Headquartered in Orange County, California, Knobbe Martens also has offices in San Diego, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Silicon Valley, Seattle and Washington, D.C. More information about the firm can be found at www.knobbe.com.
