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Genomics
July 13, 2000
Genentech, Incyte
Genomics Tell House Subcommittee Gene Patents Essential For Medical
Progress
WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 13, 2000) -- Executives from two Biotechnology
Industry Organization (BIO) member companies testified today at a U.S. House
Judiciary subcommittee oversight hearing on gene patents and other genomic
inventions.
In his written testimony, Dr. Randal W. Scott, Incyte Genomics president
and chief scientific officer, said, " Our mission is to revolutionize health by
providing genomic information to researchers and consumers through a worldwide
network of collaborators. Our goal is to help provide scientists with an
understanding of the molecular basis for all major human diseases within 10
years.
"The patent system is designed to create incentives for invention
and nowhere is its role more apparent than in the case of genomic
inventions," Scott added. "Existing patent guidelines, which have spurred the tremendous
advances we've recently seen in medical research, must remain intact to ensure
continued discovery."
In his testimony, Dr. Dennis J. Henner, Genentech senior vice president
of research, observed, "We are confident that the patent system will be able to
properly adapt and respond to the unique issues that are arising in the
genomics research field. The initial place for evolution to occur is in the
Patent and Trademark Office and in the federal courts."
Henner said he would not support legislative action to alter the
requirements for patentability.
The complete statements of
Scott and Henner are available on BIO's Web site, www.bio.org, in Issues
& Policies under Testimony and Comments. A special BIO report on
gene-based patents, titled "Primer: Genome and Genetic Research, Patent Protection and 21st Century
Medicine," is posted in Issues & Policies under Genomics.
Today's oversight hearing was conducted by the House Judiciary Subcommitee
on Courts and Intellectual Property. The subcommittee has jurisdiction over
the Patent and Trademark Office, which is considering new guidelines for
gene-based patents. BIO's comments, submitted March 22, on the proposed PTO
guidelines also are posted in the Issues & Policies section of the Web
site under Testimony and Comments.
BIO represents more than 900 companies, academic institutions and biotech
centers in 50 states and 26 nations. BIO members are involved in the research
and development of health-care, agricultural, industrial and environmental
biotechnology products.
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