Genetic
technology represents the convergence between biotechnology and
information technology. Gene chips, computer chips that analyze tens of
thousands of genes at a time, enable rapid profiling of an individual’s
genetic makeup. They open new avenues of medical research and offer the
promise of individually tailored drugs and therapies. The ready
availability of genetic information also could lead to abuses, such as
discrimination and violations of employment and insurance law. The challenge for Congress
is to discourage misuse without frustrating the development of new technology and the acquisition of patents and intellectual property rights.
Gene chips, also known as “DNA chips” or “biochips”, are based on a wafer composed of a glass substrate and may contain hundreds of thousands of tiny cells, each containing DNA corresponding to a different gene. A number of different genetic tests may be performed simultaneously using micro-arrays of DNA-containing cells. Gene chips are used in the pharmaceutical industry to study the genes involved in various biological processes and can facilitate the drug discovery process.
The technology may eventually enable doctors to diagnose various genetic disorders through the microarray profiling of genetic characteristics. A physician may thereby develop a treatment regimen tailored to the genetic make-up of a particular patient.
The development and patenting of genetic technology raises issues of federal law and policy pertaining to civil liberties and the right to privacy under the United States Constitution. The briefing will address the issue of how to protect privacy and
ensure nondiscrimination while employing advanced genetic technology.
Senator Jay Rockefeller and Senator Bill
Frist invite you to join them for a discussion of genetic technology, privacy and nondiscrimination.
Featured Speakers:
Susan Siegel, President of Affymetrix, Inc. Affymetrix is the leading purveyor of genetic testing technology, and is a patent holder and manufacturer of the GeneChip.
Hugh Rienhoff, Founder of DNA Sciences, Inc. DNA Sciences is the innovative genetics discovery company that created DNA.com and the Gene Trust database.
Sharon Terry, Vice President of The Genetic Alliance. The Genetic Alliance is a leading international consumer advocacy coalition focused on the impact of genetic technology and genetic medicine.
Neil Holtzman, Professor of Epidemiology and Public Health at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. Professor Holtzman is an expert on genetic technology and its implications for public policy.
Moving Ideas from the Lab to the Marketplace
The Future of Broadband
Who Owns the Genome? Human Genetics and Intellectual Property
