Gene patents: History, effects, and the question of propriety

For centuries, patents have served as an economic incentive for promoting research and development by conferring time-limited exclusive rights. The history of biotechnology patents, and more specifically, patents related to genetics is relatively recent. Both case law and legislation have shaped the direction of gene patents. Concerns about how gene patents affect research and patient care have surfaced. Limited studies have shown that gene patents may have a slight negative impact on research and perhaps a more substantial impact on patient care, however further investigation in both these areas is needed. The more fundamental question concerning the utility of patents for genetic research should be examined. In order for genetic discoveries to most benefit the public good, traditional gene patent policy needs to be greatly reformed in any number of suggested manners or perhaps even abolished.