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The company that makes the world's biggest-selling gene test for breast and ovarian cancers is refusing to share groundbreaking knowledge that could benefit patients, academics claim.
Myriad Genetics is accused of deliberately withholding data that could help other scientists to understand cancer genetics, on the grounds that the information is commercially sensitive.
The healthcare company manufactures the test for determining whether women carry potentially lethal mutations of the two genes linked with inherited forms of breast and ovarian cancer. It has a monopoly on the tests in the United States and is about to start more aggressive marketing in Europe.
"We are very concerned that such important data is being withheld from those who need it," said Professor Martina Cornel, chair of the European Society of Human Genetics policy committee.
While Myriad is refusing to let other scientists have access to its data, the company has free access to the public databases compiled by other scientists, Professor Cornel said.
"Myriad's stated aim to enter the European market more vigorously may lead to unfair competition with academic institutions for predictive precision,"...
Myriad Genetics is accused of deliberately withholding data that could help other scientists to understand cancer genetics, on the grounds that the information is commercially sensitive.
The healthcare company manufactures the test for determining whether women carry potentially lethal mutations of the two genes linked with inherited forms of breast and ovarian cancer. It has a monopoly on the tests in the United States and is about to start more aggressive marketing in Europe.
"We are very concerned that such important data is being withheld from those who need it," said Professor Martina Cornel, chair of the European Society of Human Genetics policy committee.
While Myriad is refusing to let other scientists have access to its data, the company has free access to the public databases compiled by other scientists, Professor Cornel said.
"Myriad's stated aim to enter the European market more vigorously may lead to unfair competition with academic institutions for predictive precision,"...