Chapter 4, Problem 16BS

Doctors at a university medical center removed John Moore’s spleen, which is a standard treatment for his type of leukemia. The disease did not recur. Researchers kept the spleen cells alive in a nutrient medium. They found that some cells produced a blood protein that showed promise as a treatment for cancer and AIDS. The researchers patented the cells. Moore sued, claiming a share in profits from any products derived from his cells. The U.S. Supreme Court ruled against Moore, stating that his lawsuit “threatens to destroy the economic incentive to conduct important medical research.” Moore argued that the ruling left patients ‘vulnerable to exploitation at the hands of the state.” Do you think Moore was treated fairly? What else would you like to know about this case that might help you decide?