Who Owns the Genome? Human Genetics and Intellectual Property
April 26, 2001

The recent publication of the Human Genome by Celera Genomics and the Human Genome Institute has focused attention on the legal and ethical implications of the vast new knowledge made available through the sequencing of the genome.

Strong patent protection for DNA sequences has spawned a unique innovation system where patient capital from the private sector funds research in genomics and biotechnology. Some critics argue, however, that granting property rights for genetic information is inappropriate or even immoral. Others argue that strong patent protection limits the availability or raises the cost of genetic tests, pharmaceuticals, and other products of genomics research.

Senator Jay Rockefeller and Senator Bill Frist invite you to join them for a discussion of human genetics and the intellectual property system for DNA sequences.
Text Written Transcript of the session
Featured Speakers:
Craig Venter, President & CEO of Celera Genomics – one of the world’s leading scientists and the first to sequence the human genome.
Bruce Lehman, President of the International Intellectual Property Institute – former Director of the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office, he developed the policy of granting patents for DNA sequences.
Lori Andrews, Director of the Institute for Science, Law and Technology at the Chicago-Kent College of Law – a leading critic of the current patent regime for genetic material, she is the author of nine books including The Clone Age and Body Bazaar: The Market for Human Tissue in the Biotechnology Age.
Led by U.S. Senators Jay Rockefeller and Bill Frist, the Forum advocates no particular position or policy prescription. Our sole purpose is to inform. Our briefings are nonpartisan, balanced, and open to the public and the media.