Quote: Human genes may not be patented, but artificially copied DNA can be claimed as intellectual property, the US Supreme Court has ruled unanimously.
The court quashed patents held by a Utah-based firm on two genes linked to breast and ovarian cancer.
The opinion said DNA came from nature and was not eligible for patenting.
The US biotechnology industry had warned any blanket ban on gene patents would jeopardise huge investment in gene research and therapies.
Thursday's compromise ruling, which had been urged by the Obama administration, is widely expected to shield existing patents involving synthetic molecules known as complementary DNA.
Shares in the company affected, Myriad Genetics, rose after the decision was published. | 
