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Genomics Unbound: The Bright Future Of Genetic Testing And Therapy In Light Of Prometheus, Fazal Khan, Lindsay Kessler

Fazal Khan

This article sets out why gene patents are detrimental to society and further explains why the Supreme Court’s decision in Prometheus unfetters the field of genomics from thirty years of bad precedent. Certain vested interests in the biotechnology industry have long argued that gene patents are needed to promote innovation and ultimately benefits the public interest. However, using Myriad’s breast cancer gene patents on BRCA1 and BRCA2 as a case study, this article argues the opposite. Essentially, gene patents stifle research, impede patient access to affordable testing, and set back the development of new therapies. In addition, this article analyzes …