That homologous recombination occurs between the targeted DNA and an introduced plasmid that is homologous to a chromosome does not require that the targeted DNA actually be chromosomal DNA. It requires only that the targeted DNA be homologous to chromosomal DNA. Non-chromosomal DNA, such as mitochondrial DNA or DNA in an additional plasmid, can be
Drug giants Sanofi and Pfizer each claimed that it had first dibs on patenting a segment of DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid).
Who did have first dibs turned on the date when each of them not only isolated the DNA sequence but also "appreciated" what it had isolated. Sanofi-Aventis v. Pfizer Inc., No. 12-1345, slip op.
Last week, a 9-0 Supreme Court ruled that human genes do not count as patent-eligible subject matter but that fake genes with some DNA missing may. Ass'n for Molecular Pathology v. Myriad Genetics, Inc., No. 12-398, slip op. 12 (U.S. June 13, 2013) ("Groundbreaking, innovative, or even brilliant discovery does not by itself satisfy