Innovation Asset Blog

EU court bans stem cell procedure patents

The European Court of Justice has ruled to prohibit the patenting of any stem cell research technique that destroys a human embryo, eliciting a range of reactions from the medical community in the process.

Several researchers have already expressed disappointment regarding the verdict, according to Reuters, suggesting that the legislation may cripple an innovative area of medical science that many believe could be the source of significant breakthroughs. Some even went so far as to suggest that cures for blindness and Parkinson's disease are already well in the works.

"It means that fundamental research can take place in Europe, but that developments that follow from that cannot be implemented in Europe," one scientist told the news outlet. "It means European researchers can prepare these things but others will pick the fruits in the U.S. or Asia."

A variety of other concerned parties welcomed the court's ruling, according to the Associated Press. Several researchers were relieved that a definitive legal precedent had been set, eliminating potential gray areas in the process. Others hailed the verdict as a prime example of upholding ethics despite the pressures of commercial interests.

Peter Ackerman

Peter Ackerman

Founder & CEO, Innovation Asset Group, Inc.