TED: Should you be able to patent a human gene? | Tania Simoncelli

The video discusses the journey of challenging gene patents in the US, led by a science advisor at the ACLU and a lawyer, Chris Hansen. They aimed to address the issue of gene patents, which restricted scientific freedom and patient rights. The case focused on Myriad Genetics, which held patents on BRCA genes, affecting breast and ovarian cancer testing. Despite initial skepticism, the case reached the Supreme Court, resulting in a unanimous decision that human genes cannot be patented. This landmark ruling ended a 25-year practice, promoting innovation and patient access to genetic testing.

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