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    Back to To the Point

    To the Point

    Genetic Breakthroughs: Patents and Profits

    Cases being arguing today before the US Supreme Court involving the patenting of human genes could determine the future of "personalized medicine."

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    By Warren Olney • Apr 15, 2013 • 51m Listen

    Companies get patents on human genes to give them incentive to conduct expensive research into what those genes can reveal about an individual's chances of contracting disease. But is that patenting life itself? We hear about today's arguments at The US Supreme Court in a case that could determine the future of "personalized medicine." Also, a narrow victory for Venezuela's new president. On Reporters Notebook, why can't the IRS just send income-tax payers a bill?

    Banner image of human genome by Webridge

    BREAKING NEWS: Warren Olney speaks with David Abel of the Boston Globe about twin explosions that rocked the finish line of the Boston Marathon.

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      Warren Olney

      former KCRW broadcaster

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      Evan George

      Director of Content, News

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      Kerry Cavanaugh

      editorial writer at the Los Angeles Times

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      Sonya Geis

      Senior Managing Editor

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