In advance of the upcoming gene patent ruling Association for Molecular Pathology v. Myriad Genetics, Inc., Professor Alan Ashworth, Chief Executive of The Institute of Cancer Research, London, said:
“When we found the BRCA2 gene at the Institute of Cancer Research, London, our aim was that our discovery was used to help cancer patients.
“Any Supreme Court ruling that continues to restrict the availability of tests for variations in individual genes in an age when whole genome analysis is becoming commonplace would be very disappointing.
“Tests for potentially fatal BRCA mutations are already saving lives by diagnosing women at highest risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer. By identifying women who carry high-risk BRCA mutations, doctors can help them make decisions on their future treatment, for example by offering a preventative mastectomy.
“The argument that innovation will be stifled if there are no rewards for ‘invention’ is particularly pernicious. Commercial organisations can be exceptionally innovative and it is only right that this is rewarded. But patenting is not the only way to ensure innovation.”
Notes to editors
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The Institute of Cancer Research, London, is one of the world’s most influential cancer research institutes.
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