Number: RS22516
Title: Gene Patents: A Brief Overview of Intellectual Property Issues
Authors: Wendy H. Schacht, Resources, Science, and Industry Division 
Abstract: The courts have upheld gene patents that meet the criteria of patentability defined by the Patent Act. However, the practice of awarding patents on genes has come under scrutiny by some scientists, legal scholars, politicians, and other experts. Gene patenting may raise ethical, legal, and economic issues; a short discussion of these issues follows.
Pages: 6
Date: January 7, 2008