The biotechnology industry praised the change. Biotech companies will be able to get patents earlier in the process of drug development and that will make it easier for companies to raise the money needed for clinical trials. With discoveries of more genes responsible for certain diseases, genetic screening is moving ahead quickly. However, critics say the ethical side of genetic screening has failed to keep pace with the scientific advances. Vickie Reis, a former school bus driver, was denied health insurance four times because a genetic screening showed her to be a potential carrier of cystic fibrosis.
Genetic discrimination is the most pressing concern.
The possibility of discrimination has instilled caution in those seeking genetic tests, forcing many to test under a false name and still others to not test at all. Filed in 1987, Genentech accused Lilly of violating 14 patents it held on recombinant DNA techniques. While costly, the settlement frees up Lilly to continue selling its more lucrative products such as Humulin, a diabetes treatment, and its version of HGH, known as Humatrope. In the U.S. under the new GATT, which went into effect January 1, patents will expire 20 years from the date of application rather than 17 years from the date the patent is granted. As a result, the company said that two patents on Zantac would be extended for 19 months, to July 1997.