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Patenting part of yourself |
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ANU
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Tuesday, 07 September 2010 |
Image: Kativ/iStockphoto
Investors in pharmaceutical, medical and biotechnological industries
should not be able to patent genes that are identical to naturally
occurring sequences, according to an ANU biotechnology patent expert.
Dr Luigi Palombi, who appeared on the ABC’s Four Corners program
discussing gene patents, argues that a system which recognises a genetic
sequence right (GSR) would make it easier for scientists to carry out
their research that would, ultimately, benefit society.
“The current patent system does not encourage innovation in Australian
biotechnology,” said Dr Palombi, who is the project director of the
Genetic Sequence Right Project at the Centre for Governance of Knowledge
and Development at ANU.
“Scientists and researchers should not be limited in their endeavours to
innovate and overcome the causes of human disease and illness.
“Clearly, there is logic in the argument that patents help to encourage
innovation, but the patent system has inherent limitations, one of which
is that the subject of the patent must be an ‘invention’. The use of
genetic sequences which are identical to naturally occurring sequences
should not be controlled or come under the ownership of any one
organisation or person.”
Dr Palombi said the GSR holder would be recognised as being the first to
enable the publication of new genetic materials and their function and,
therefore, entitled to receive GSR revenue for their disclosure.
“Irrespective of whether a genetic sequence is an invention or not, the
elucidation of a genetic sequence and the identification of its function
is important work that should be encouraged,” Dr Palombi said.
The Centre for Governance of Knowledge and Development is part of the Regulatory Institutions Network at ANU.
Editor's Note:
Original news release can be found here.
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