The U.S. Supreme Court has put new limits on the availability of patents for diagnostic medical tests, ruling in favor of Mayo Clinic in their decision regarding the Mayo Collaborative Services vs. Prometheus case, that will shape the growing field of personalized health care. Finnegan partner Erika H. Arner said “The ruling was surprising and a “real departure” from past Supreme Court cases. The Court’s focus on laws of nature means the ruling will have a bigger impact on the biotechnology industry than computer companies.” Additionally, she stated “The Court was careful, it seems, to avoid any unintended consequences.”
