Gene Patents

Re “Patent Office Now at Heart of Gene Debate,” Feb. 7: The notion that someone can “patent” a gene is utterly outrageous! It is yet another example of capitalism gone berserk. We’re talking about the fundamental components of heredity here. As one critic quoted in the article observed, it’s like patenting letters of the alphabet.

All gene research should be publicly funded under the aegis of the Human Genome Project. The patents already awarded to Myriad Genetics and other such companies should be voided and the information made freely available to all interested scientists and physicians.

C. SCOTT LITTLETON

Professor of Anthropology

Occidental College, Los Angeles