Genetic Patenting

Paper Summary:

Every since Watson and Crick discovered DNA's structure in 1953 there has been a mad rush to discover its function. The paper explores the discovery of scientist J. Craig Venter, whose groundbreaking system is responsible for locating and sequencing 85-90 percent of all human genes. Venter's discovery led to the National Institute of Health patenting gene fragments and the paper examines the controversy surrounding the issue. It discusses whether DNA, part of the human genome, should be allowed to be patented and also, how the information should be used. The paper also looks at the benefits of making DNA sequencing public property.

From the Paper:

"A major concern for many is how new DNA technology can be used against them. In a world full of real or imagined discrimination, genetic discrimination is a looming threat. Nineteen states now have laws governing privacy of genetic tests. Still, 25 percent of the individuals participating in a study at Georgetown University believed they had been discriminated against (Sternberg, 1996). Many Americans may be reason to fear, including those who themselves discriminate. More that 15 million Americans have one or more birth defects, 80 percent of them genetically caused (Cary, 1995). There are diseases numbering greater than 3,000 that are genetically coded (Platt, 1997). Discrimination may be on the job or by insurance companies who refuse to cover an individual based on a pre-existing condition. Martha Volner of the Alliance of Genetic Support Groups feels insurance companies do not need genetic information to discriminate. Enough history both personal and family is given to the insurance agency to negate the use of genetic tests (Sternberg, 1996)."

More papers on Genetic Patenting:

• Dissertation or Thesis # 95899 : "Patent Law & Genetic Medicine"
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• Term Paper # 68462 : "Genetic Engineering"

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