Biology, Eighth Edition (Raven)

Chapter 18: Genomics

Objective: Evaluate how discovery of human genes has led to bioethical dilemma’s about the rights of patenting the gene when discovered.


1.	What is the human genome?

		A)	A pair of homologous chromosomes.
		B)	All the DNA that a person possesses.
		C)	A diploid number of chromosomes.
		D)	Any genetic mutation.

2.	What is being sought after to patent regarding the human genome?

		A)	The pharmecuticals that are made from the discovered genes.
		B)	The equipment used to do the gene sequencing
		C)	The actual method used to determine the gene sequence.
		D)	The genes and gene fragments that have been discovered

3.	What is in question regarding the ethics of patenting human genes?

		A)	It has never been allowed yet.
		B)	Genes are actually pre-existing information that hasn’t been invented.
		C)	Patents do not last long enough to warrant using them for discovered genes.
		D)	Genes that are patented could be used as biological weapons.

4.	Which of the following is NOT a potential problem that arises from allowing patents for human genes?

		A)	It may not be clear what a patented genes actually does in the body.
		B)	Patented genes may prevent other researchers from examining them for other applied value.
		C)	Research on gene utility can be stalled when a lab has to have approvals from several gene patents.
		D)	All of the patents have been given already.

5.	What appears to be viable solution(s) for the scientific community in the question of gene patenting?

		A)	Patent pooling
		B)	Mandatory licensing
		C)	Patent stacking
		D)	2 of the above
		E)	All of the above