DNA Chip의 효과적 활용과 법적 문제점

The Legal Aspect of DNA Chip Patents

DNA chips have been developed with 400,000 distinct DNA probes arrayed on their surface. Each probe can bind to a different gene sequence in a sample of DNA. DNA probe technology has been adapted for detection of not just one sequence but also tens of thousands simultaneously. DNA chips allow researchers to perform thousands of separate experiments all at the same time. It is estimated that within the next decade a doctor could use a DNA chip to determine whether a person's genes at risk for disease. Moreover, if a disease develops, a chip may determine the severity of the ailment and the method of treatment. Therefore, DNA chips will change the field of medical activity. DNA chips will do a variety of important medical application: diagnosis, prognosis and disease response. Although medical practitioner's performance of a medical activity cannot be patented, DNA chips are patentable. The balance of public interest and private interest is urgently needed. Therefore, country should issue a compulsory license, which allows country to produce needed medication without the permission of the patent holder.