In an unanimous decision, the Supreme Court ruled that human genes cannot be patented. The decision is anticipated to reduce future costs of genetic testing, but may also lead to some reduced investment in gene-related research ventures. As quoted in the New York Times, Justice Clarence Thomas wrote, "Myriad did not create anything...it found an important and useful gene, but separating that gene from its surrounding genetic material is not an act of invention.”
To read more about the landmark decision, we suggest this New York Times article.
Of note, the patent ban does not include complementary DNA (cDNA) which is created in the laboratory setting. The video below describes this difference in more detail as it pertains to the Supreme Court decision.
To read more about the landmark decision, we suggest this New York Times article.
Of note, the patent ban does not include complementary DNA (cDNA) which is created in the laboratory setting. The video below describes this difference in more detail as it pertains to the Supreme Court decision.
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