The impact of patenting on DNA diagnostic practice
Gert Matthijs and Shirley Hodgson
DOI: https://doi.org/10.7861/clinmedicine.8-1-58
Clin Med February 2008 Gert Matthijs
Center for Human Genetics, University of Leuven, Belgium
PhDRoles: Head of Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory
Shirley Hodgson
Department of Clinical Development Sciences, St George's, University of
London
DM FRCPRoles: Professor of Cancer Genetics
Abstract
Patents on genes often cover the gene sequence and the link between a disease and mutations in a gene, rather than a technology for the identification of mutations per se. Normally, patents are important for encouraging the development of new diagnostic tools and kits, but there is evidence that they can have severely deleterious effects on the delivery of genetic services. The difference largely depends on the licensing policy of the patent holder. This article describes different ways in which patents are used in this context and how the effects may be mitigated.
- BRCA1
- BRCA2
- cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator gene
- genetic tests
- HFE
- license models
- patents
- © 2008 Royal College of Physicians
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The impact of patenting on DNA diagnostic practice
Gert Matthijs, Shirley Hodgson
Clinical Medicine Feb 2008, 8 (1) 58-60; DOI: 10.7861/clinmedicine.8-1-58
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