The Genome Defense: Inside the Epic Legal Battle to Determine Who Owns Your DNA

In the legal case AMP v. Myriad, a group of lawyers, activists, scientists, and physicians fought against biotech companies owning human genes, ultimately taking the case to the U.S. Supreme Court. The book explores the complexities of genetic research, corporate greed, and government overreach, highlighting the importance of balancing scientific advancements with civil rights.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 432 pages
Publication date: 18 October 2022
Publisher: Algonquin Books (division of Workman)

In this riveting, behind-the-scenes courtroom drama, a brilliant legal team battles corporate greed and government overreach for our fundamental right to control our genes. When attorney Chris Hansen learned that the U.S. government was issuing patents for human genes to biotech companies, his first thought was, "How can a corporation own what makes us who we are?" Then he discovered that women were being charged exorbitant fees to test for hereditary breast and ovarian cancers, tests they desperately needed—all because Myriad Genetics had patented the famous BRCA genes. So he sued them. Jorge L. Contreras, one of the nation's foremost authorities on human genetics law, has devoted years to investigating the groundbreaking civil rights case known as AMP v. Myriad. In The Genome Defense, Contreras gives us the view from inside as Hansen and his team of ACLU lawyers, along with a committed group of activists, scientists, and physicians, take their one-in-a-million case all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court. Contreras interviewed more than a hundred key players involved in all aspects of the case—from judges and policy makers to ethicists and genetic counselors, as well as cancer survivors and those whose lives would be impacted by the decision—expertly weaving together their stories into a fascinating narrative of this pivotal moment in history.

The Genome Defense is a powerful and compelling story about how society must balance scientific discovery with corporate profits and the rights of all people. It raises important questions about the ownership of genetic information, the role of corporations in healthcare, and the importance of protecting individual rights. This case has had a significant impact on the field of genetics and has paved the way for further discussions about the ethical and legal implications of genetic research and technology.

In conclusion, The Genome Defense is a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of science, law, and society. It is a powerful story that will leave you thinking about the implications of genetic research and technology for generations to come.

Weight: 350g
Dimension: 140 x 210 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781643753249