A mistake in a European patent granted to Edinburgh University apparently allows the production of genetically altered humans, say critics. The patent covers a method for isolating and growing stem cells - cells that can grow into any type of tissue - from genetically altered animals. But as it stands the patent could also apply to humans, claim the German branch of Greenpeace, which uncovered the error.
European patent officials have admitted the patent should not have been granted in its present form: 'It's a mistake' said Rainer Osterwalder of the German patent office. 'What's missing is the disclaimer that it does not refer to humans.' German Health Minister Andrea Fischer said she would recommend that the German Cabinet issue a challenge to correct the 'serious' error.
Scientists Austin Smith, of the Centre for Genome Research in Edinburgh, and Peter Mountford of biotech company Stem Cell Sciences, Melbourne, were granted the patent in December 1999. They are researching the possible use of stem cells for treating human illnesses such as Parkinson's disease. 'The patent does not relate in any sense to the cloning of human beings' said a spokeswoman at Edinburgh last week.
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