The Ethical Implications of Gene Patenting

"Do genes qualify as a property that a single individual or corporation is allowed exclusive rights to? This spring, the Supreme Court will hear a case that could dictate the future of biomedicine. Currently, Myriad Genetics Corporation, a biotechnology outfit in Utah, has patented two human genes known as BRCA1 and BRCA2. These genes are known to greatly elevate a woman's risk of breast and ovarian cancer. This patent allows Myriad Genetics to block all others from using these genes for the purposes of breast cancer diagnostics, research and treatment...."

http://www.empowereddoctor.com/the-ethical-implications-of-gene-patenting (Click link to full story)

UPDATE: Published June 13, 2013
"Human genes may not be patented, the Supreme Court ruled unanimously on Thursday. The decision is likely to reduce the cost of genetic testing for some health risks, and it may discourage investment in some forms of genetic research.  The case concerned patents held by Myriad Genetics, a Utah company, on genes that correlate with an increased risk of hereditary breast and ovarian cancer."
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/06/14/us/supreme-court-rules-human-genes-may-not-be-patented.html?_r=0 
(Click link to story)