About Us
How Does The Patent Process Work?
How are patent claims written?
Please review the patent claims document for an example
How long does it take to get a patent?
A patent is issued after a legal "give and take" with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (PTO) called patent prosecution. Patent prosecution may take 1 - 5 years.
However, commercialization activities may begin as soon as an Invention Disclosure Report is received by the Office of Technology Commercialization or following filing of the patent application.
How long can a patent be enforced?
A patent expires 20 years from the initial filing date, regardless of when it issues.
How much does it cost to get a patent?
Application for a patent costs approximately $15-20,000 per country.
Does the inventor pay for the patent?
No, for inventions in which M. D. Anderson asserts rights, M. D. Anderson pays all the expenses of applying for a patent and defending it in court if necessary.

