The controversy over patenting genes took a new twist in February, when a
patients group got in on the act. PXE International patented methods of treating
the debilitating genetic disease PXE based on the MRP6 gene. Mutations
in MRP6 are to blame for the disease. The group hopes that owning the
gene will allow it to accelerate research, control licence fees and prevent turf
wars between scientists.
To continue reading, subscribe today with our introductory offers
Advertisement
More from New Scientist
Explore the latest news, articles and features
Popular articles
Trending New Scientist articles