Download This PaperAre the Gene-Patent Storm Clouds Dissipating? A Global Snapshot
33(4) Nature Biotechnology 347, April 2015
6 Pages Posted: 10 Apr 2015 Last revised: 13 Apr 2015
Date Written: April 8, 2015
Abstract
In genetic diagnostics testing, what are the boundaries of the global patent problem, and is there a real risk that patents and licensing practices could impede access to tests?
Much has been written about the perceived and possible impediments posed by DNA sequence and associated method-of-use patents to the provision of genetic diagnostic testing services. These issues have recently soared into public consciousness owing to the protracted litigation concerning patents held by Myriad Genetics for genes associated with breast and ovarian cancer (BRCA1 and BRCA2) and entry into the debate of high-profile campaigners such as the actress Angelina Jolie. Surveys and case studies in the United States have provided useful empirical evidence on the negative effects of sequence and method patents and, more particularly, associated licensing practices, on the provision of genetic diagnostic services.
Keywords: gene patents, genetic diagnostic testing, global landscape, patents
JEL Classification: O31, O32, O33, O34, H51, I11
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation