“Microbesoft” patents could put the squeeze on synthetic life

J. Craig Venter is famous within the biological community for both his development of the “shotgun” method of genome sequencing and behavior that some view as egomaniacal. In a number of cases, he’s partially sequenced his own genome (or his pet’s), declared victory over public sequencing efforts, and moved on to other projects, leaving others to finish off the work. In recent years, his focus has shifted to synthetic life—cells directed by simplified genomes engineered to perform useful tasks such as fuel production or drug synthesis. But, in pursuing that goal, he’s accumulating a patent portfolio that may inhibit biotech research in general. (arstechnica.com)

Adica se doreste practic un monopol in ingineria genetica privind formele de viata artificiale, produse sintetic in laborator. Deja asta suna a SF. Cat despre incercarea unora de a obtine patente pentru “viata” deja seamana intradevar cu un mare producator de software stiti voi care.