Researchers on the Human Genome Project have determined the nucleotide sequences of human genes and in many cases identified the proteins encoded by the genes. Knowledge of the nucleotide sequences of genes might be used to develop lifesaving medicines or treatments for genetic defects. In the United States, both government agencies and biotechnology companies have applied for patents on their discoveries of genes. In Britain, the courts have ruled that a naturally occurring gene cannot be patented. Questions: • Do you think individuals and companies should be able to patent genes and gene products? • What might be some positive and negative results of patenting genes? • Before answering these questions, take time to consider the following: What are the purposes of a patent? How might a discoverer of a gene benefit from a patent? How might the public benefit?

Researchers on the Human Genome Project have determined the nucleotide sequences of human genes and in many cases identified the proteins encoded by the genes. Knowledge of the nucleotide sequences of genes might be used to develop lifesaving medicines or treatments for genetic defects. In the United States, both government agencies and biotechnology companies have applied for patents on their discoveries of genes. In Britain, the courts have ruled that a naturally occurring gene cannot be patented. Questions: • Do you think individuals and companies should be able to patent genes and gene products? • What might be some positive and negative results of patenting genes? • Before answering these questions, take time to consider the following: What are the purposes of a patent? How might a discoverer of a gene benefit from a patent? How might the public benefit?

Human Heredity: Principles and Issues (MindTap Course List)

11th Edition

ISBN:9781305251052

Author:Michael Cummings

Publisher:Michael Cummings

Chapter11: Genome Alterations: Mutation And Epigenetics

Section: Chapter Questions

Problem 6QP: Although it is well known that X-rays cause mutations, they are routinely used to diagnose medical...

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Although it is well known that X-rays cause mutations, they are routinely used to diagnose medical problems, including potential tumors, broken bones, and dental cavities. Why is this done? What precautions need to be taken?
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Increasingly, whole-genome sequencing of individuals is being done to help identify and treat medical conditions. Genome sequencing invariably identifies a number of variations, some common and some rare, that might be clinically relevant. For example, suppose a person had their genome sequenced to help determine their risk for cardiovascular disease and, just by chance, the sequence revealed that they carry one or more variants that predispose them to cancer or Alzheimer disease. Does the sequencing laboratory or physician have an obligation to report this finding, which was not the purpose of the sequencing and which the patient did not request? What about reporting variants for which no or limited information can be provided about their clinical significance? Does the answer to this question differ for sequencing done on children?
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