‘Law of Nature’ or ‘Invention’? Court Mulls Patentability of Genes

Before a standing-room only courtroom, a New York federal judge heard arguments Tuesday in a lawsuit questioning the patentability of human genes. The dispute centers on whether genes, once separated from the lengthy DNA sequence, are sufficiently "new and useful" to be deemed patentable under federal patent law. Multiple amicus briefs were filed on behalf of both sides of the case, which has become a lightning rod for the issue of genetic patenting.