IVF costs set to soar, scientists warn

Researchers voice 'extreme concern' as deadline to challenge patent for time-lapsed microscopy loomsScientists have only a few weeks to block a patent that could have serious implications for couples seeking IVF treatments in Europe. This is the stark warning from researchers writing in the journal Reproductive BioMedicine Online.They state that the granting of a patent for a technique known as time-lapsed microscopy (TLM), by the European Patent Office in January, could result in significant increases in the cost of IVF treatments. According to the journal, a test based on the technique – which involves measuring the first three cell cycles in a human embryo – could make dramatic improvements in IVF success. Such a test could cost £750.Many biologists believe it is wrong to try to patent something that is a natural process. However, a patent taken out by Stanford University and the biotechnology company Auxogyn was granted by the European Patent Office in January. Interested parties were then given nine months to oppose it. That deadline is 23 October."We are extremely concerned about this and have now passed on copies of our journal's paper to UK medical organisations – including the British Medical Association, the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority and the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists – in the hope they will take action," said Professor Martin Johnson, the journal's editor."TLM is a very promising technique that could greatly improv...
Source: Guardian Unlimited Science - Category: Science Authors: Tags: Biology Fertility problems World news Medical research Society The Observer Science Source Type: news