(via boingboing)

The ACLU is seeking to have patents on genetic tests overturned on constitutional grounds, arguing that genes are not inventions, and that patents on them do not advance science because the companies that win them are capricious and greedy and deny legitimate researchers access to the patented arts.

The specific genes in question are associated with breast and ovarian cancer and the ACLU is making sure that no one will be able to take advantage of the genes and that scientific research won’t be hindered anymore. According to the ACLU we are already in a dangerous place when it comes to gene patents and scientists abilities to study:

The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (PTO) has granted thousands of patents on human genes – in fact, about 20 percent of our genes are patented. A gene patent holder has the right to prevent anyone from studying, testing or even looking at a gene. As a result, scientific research and genetic testing has been delayed, limited or even shut down due to concerns about gene patents.

To me, that is terrifying.  To think that there are large corporations out there that own human genes - human life - is something that makes me sick.

I am glad the ACLU and all the plaintiffs are standing up for our rights and our bodies!

Do NOT Patent My Genes!!!