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Gene Patents (A) (TN)

By: Richard G. Hamermesh and Matthew Preble
  • Format:Print
  • | Language:English
  • | Pages:9
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Abstract

This is the teaching note for case Gene Patents (A). In March 2010, U.S. District Court Judge Robert Sweet overturned 30 years of legal precedent and ruled that unaltered human genes could not be patented. This case reviews patent law and how it relates to our increasing knowledge of the Human Genome. The case issues deal with potential implications of Judge Sweet's decision for biotechnology entrepreneurs and investors.

Keywords

Biotech; Human Genome; Patents; Genetics; Biotechnology Industry; United States

Citation

Hamermesh, Richard G., and Matthew Preble. "Gene Patents (A) (TN)." Harvard Business School Teaching Note 813-099, December 2012.

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