The Pathologies of Data-Generating Patents
BIG DATA, HEALTH LAW, AND BIOETHICS (I. Glenn Cohen et al., eds., 2017 Forthcoming)
15 Pages Posted: 13 Dec 2016 Last revised: 26 Jan 2017
Date Written: December 8, 2016
Abstract
Previously, we introduced the concept of “data-generating patents,” which are patented inventions that by design produce valuable data through their operation or use. When holders of data-generating patents possess market power over the patented invention, they often indirectly enjoy market power over the data generated by the invention. Here, we focus on concerns raised by biomedical data-generating patents, particularly in the context of the rise of “big data.” Data-generating patents are prevalent in the biomedical field and include patents covering genetic diagnostic tests, implantable and other medical devices, as well as consumer gadgets that track, store, and analyze information about patients and users.
Keywords: patents, trade secrets, big data, medical diagnostic tests, biotechnology, biomedical, Myriad
JEL Classification: L1, L2,L5, L63, L65, O3, O34
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