The Ethics of Patenting DNA
Introduction
Many companies and universities throughout the world are seeking to file patents on gene sequences and proteins. Questions remain, however, over the moral implications of protecting rights to property in this kind of way. The Council set up a Round Table Group in June 2000 to consider the ethical and legal issues raised by this form of patenting and the implications for healthcare.
Research into DNA and proteins offers the possibility of many different kinds of developments in healthcare. New gene-based tests and drugs for a wide range of common diseases will be developed on the basis of knowledge about the human genome and the genomes of bacteria and viruses.
The Round Table Group considered questions such as:
- What is the proper balance between public and private sectors in these developments?
- Will broad patents covering important disease genes such as the breast cancer genes restrict the development of affordable tests?
- What is the role of patent offices?
- Does the patent system actually encourage innovation in biomedical research?
The Round Table meetings produced a Discussion Paper in June 2002. This is intended to help the Courts, patent offices and policy-makers to develop public policy and professional guidance and to promote public debate.
Last Updated Tue, 2 May 2006
