Patenting

Patenting section

A patent allows the holder to exclude anyone else from making, using or selling the 'invention' for up to 20 years although this can be extended by clever manoeuvring for up to 30 years. Since 1980, patents have been increasingly extended to include living organisms, their organs or body parts, and their genes. Some countries - particularly those in the developing world - are resisting such moves but, citing free trade rules, the US and industry are pushing for all countries to allow patents to be granted on genes and living organisms.

Evidence is emerging which shows that patents are:

  • preventing or hindering development of new or improved medicines and treatments;
  • limiting access to healthcare by increasing the cost of diagnostics and treatment for certain diseases;
  • inhibiting the free exchange of information between researchers;
  • skewing research towards commercially attractive science;
  • involving unsuspecting parties in extensive and costly legal battles.

Patenting Life - The Guardian newspaper special supplement (November 2000)

Based on research specially commissioned from GeneWatch UK. The 12-page supplement provides an in depth analysis of the race to patent the genes of humans, animals and plants. It includes details of which companies have patented what genes, articles on the implications of gene patenting and a Beginner's Guide to Gene Patents.

A complete list of the applications for patents which GeneWatch UK supplied to The Guardian and latest reports on the patent debate can be found at www.guardianunlimited.co.uk/genes

A limited number of copies of the Patenting Life supplement are available from GeneWatch UK. Please send a stamped (47p) A4 size addressed envelope.

Resources

↑ Top