Recent Cases Strengthen Research Tool Patents.

"Biotech research tools come in many forms. Examples of such research tools include screening techniques, rational drug design schemes, and chemical or biological compounds having useful physiological properties such as specific receptor binding. These research tools can assist in the discovery, identification, characterization, and development of commercial products, e.g., pharmaceuticals and biologics, but are not themselves readily marketable.

Consequently, a company or university that creates research tools should be aware of the recent developments for protecting and exploiting them."

From about.com: