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Yes Squetch, this one is the most interesting of the three. You are right, it appears to be very broad, but also very vague. I must admit that although I read all the claims, I don't really understand what it is that they have patented. Is it the RNA sequence? If so, it is worth noting that congress is moving to outlaw patents on human DNA/RNA sequences. I have not been following that legislation, but it may be of interest to GERN.
In any case, did you read 5643890 (not held by GERN). U of NE has patented a methodology of inhibiting or killing cancer cells, as characterized by telomerase activity. This patent, issued in 1993, is very close to what GERN hopes to develop in the future. Since U of NE leads GERN by several years, it might be worthwhile investigating whether they are taking on a major pharaceutical partner. |
