Effects of Patents and Licenses on the Provision of Clinical Genetic Testing Services

摘要: The growth of patents that include genetic sequences has been accompanied by concern about their impact on the ability physicians to provide clinical testing services and perform research. Therefore, we conducted a survey laboratory directors DNA-based tests examine potential effects. We performed telephone between July September in 2001 all United States who were members Association for Molecular Pathology or listed GeneTests.org website. One hundred thirty-two 211 (63%) interviewed. Ten these excluded because they did not conduct tests. Almost purposes. Half research purposes as well. Twenty-five percent respondents reported had stopped performing test patent license. Fifty-three deciding develop new In total, prevented from 12 tests, among those large number laboratories. found 22 relevant performance Fifteen (68%) are held universities institutes, 13 (59%) based funded Government. Overall, perceptions effects cost, access, development data sharing researchers, negative. contrast, most felt have an effect quality testing. conclude licenses significant laboratories Furthermore, our findings suggest geneticists feel is inhibited patents. patients' access costs thereof, remains be determined.