The future of gene patenting

            On September 19, Mike Harris, Ontario’s Premier, voiced his concerns about the issue of gene patenting and discussed the emerging role of the biotechnology industry.

            Joined by Minister of Health and Long Term Care Tony Clement, Harris spoke to a meeting of the Ontario Advisory Committee on Predictive Genetic Technology, a group that is studying issues related to genetic testing and patenting. Harris raised a number of concerns about the potential implications of gene patenting on research, privacy and the economy. However, Harris said that his primary concern is the health of Ontario’s Citizens.

            “The spinoffs of a worldwide effort such as the human genome project should not be the property of a handful of people or companies,” said Harris. “If we have the ability to save a life, we have a responsibility to do so. We must sustain research and create jobs, but we must also ensure that all citizens of the world benefit from life-saving discoveries.”

            Since 1980, patent offices in the United States and Canada have ruled that if the genes can be taken out of the human body, identified and shown to have a “use” of some kind, they can be patented.

            These genes are often used as the basis of genetic tests to identify persons at greater risk of diseases – such as some types of breast and ovarian cancer. Companies that own the patent on the gene can prohibit further research or smother competition, making predictive genetic tests difficult for hospitals or individuals to afford.

            “If our genetic heritage belongs to everyone, shouldn’t we share the benefits fairly – and make genetic tests and therapies affordable and accessible?” said Harris. “H think that the federal government should examine Canadian patent laws to make sure all citizens can share the benefits of this new research frontier.”

            Harris pledged that the Ontario government would continue to support existing genetic testing. He also said that he would continue to raise issues around genetic testing with the provinces, businesses, scientists and the people of Ontario.