4 Ways Gene Patent Ruling Affects You

4 Ways the Gene Patent Ruling Affects You This article explains what gene patenting is, Myriad Genetics and its role in gene patents, and how gene patents affect patients everywhere. It also states how when a gene is patented, it limits genetic research on the particular gene. The main argument in the article is research pertaining to two genes, BRCA1 and BRCA2, genes strongly associated to breast and ovarian cancer risk. By patenting these two genes, Myriad has almost complete control over all the research and testing done with BRCA1 and BRCA2. Myriad charges around $3,000 to use their test, which is the only test a patient can take to test for mutations in these genes. Since this is the only test available, it is not possible to get a second opinion, which could potentially lead to misdiagnosis and possibly death. Myriad Genetics is even able to overprice their tests since there is no competition. It seems clear that gene patenting does not have a positive effect on the population. This article is completely relevant to society. Women everywhere want to get tested for mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. The possibility of misdiagnosis is too high with only one possible test. Patients end up spending way more than they should for a test that often is not covered by insurance. Gene patenting can also greatly affect us in the long run if more and more genes become patented. It limits the ability for other scientists to research and learn more about the genes and also means we can end up overpaying for every type of test in the future. One particular thing that the article did not explain is the rules of gene patenting. Myriad argues that it does not interfere or limit further scientific testing on a gene. If this is so, why do so many scientists cease their research on a gene once it is patented? Another aspect I did not understand is why there is not a way to get a second opinion for a test of a patented gene. It should be up to the patient to decide what