Argen Law

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Estate Disputes

Estate disputes occur on a regular basis. Most people aren't able to successfully manage their financial affairs before illness or death strikes. Specific state laws regulate how an estate will be dispersed in the event of an estate dispute, but this process is often long and arduous.

Toxic Torts

Hazardous materials come with specific instructions to reduce the risk of injury. Unfortunately, careless handling can cause an unsuspecting victim to be injured, which is why attorneys familiar with toxic torts are hired to demand compensation.

US Casino And Sports Betting Laws

Millions of Americans partake in gambling, but there are only a few states that have legalized sports betting and table games. As more jurisdictions begin to revamp and evaluate their gambling laws, you should learn everything that you can about the regulations before you place another bet.

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Human Genes Ruled Patentable Product

Although there is much controversy over the matter, a federal court has ruled that human genes are a patentable product. This decision reverses an earlier ruling from a lower court which revolved around a breast cancer test. The case could have a significant impact on the biotechnology industry and medical therapies that are gene based. However, patents have been awarded by the U.S. Patent office for almost 30 years on human genes.

In the ruling, Judge Alan Lourie said that the genes can indeed be patented because DNA that is isolated has "markedly different chemical structure" than DNA that is in the human body. He commented that the ability to see a molecule of DNA through a microscope after it has been bonded to a material is completely different than having a DNA molecule that is usable and in hand.

The law suit involved two patents registered to Myriad Genetics Inc. in Salt Lake City. The company's BRACAnaylisis test is used to search for mutations on the predispositioned gene for breast cancer. Those mutations indicate a larger risk of both breast and ovarian cancer. The ACLU, American Civil Liberties Union, held that the genes shouldn't be patentable. And, in 2010 a district court in New York agreed.

Sandra Park, attorney for the ACLU said the organization will be consulting with its clients to come to a decision whether or not they will be seeking an appeal or other remedy. Among the plaintiffs where breast cancer groups, pathologists, researchers and other professionals. Geneticists who claimed they were unable to continue with their work was also included in the suit.

31.07.2011. 11:31


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