Law under the Microscope

More States to Push for Stem Cell Research Funds

It's already started - now that California has passed Prop. 71 to allow for $3B to go toward stem cell research over 10 years, other states are sprinting to offer funding for stem cell research within their borders. For the most part, these states fear a drain to California of companies and scientists.

Wackiest Warning Labels

Just a little fun for the end of the week - the Michigan Lawsuit Abuse Watch (M-LAW) keeps a list of the more ridiculous warnings that appear on various labels (I like the ones on hairdryers that warn you not to use in the shower).  Here are a few of the winners for this year:

"Do not use for personal hygiene" on a toilet brush.

"Never remove food or other items from the blades while the product is operating," on a blender.

Sigh ... is this what things have really come to?

In India, Could Be Long Wait for Patent Protection

As I noted yesterday, the patent laws in India were recently amended (subject to ratification in February) so that any foreign patent filed after January 1, 2005 would be recognized.  Apparently so many foreign companies are rushing to get their patents on file in India (to avoid generics and knockoffs), that the postal system has been overwhelmed with as many as 12,000 applications. The ministry of commerce in India is doing what it can just to process the application (much less review and respond to them). 

Of course, the generic drug companies in India are already looking for the loopholes in the new law...

FDA, Pharma Industry Needs Stronger Leadership

I enjoyed this column by Dyke Hendrickson in Mass High Tech.  In essence, Mr. Hendrickson argues that while there have been some missteps by the FDA and pharma industry, they're being beaten down without really fighting back.  While I think that each player in the latest scandals needs to take responsibility for any balls it's dropped or information it's inappropriately (or illegally) concealed, it's a darn shame that the entire drug industry and the FDA are being pummeled with black eyes.

India Introduces Changes to Patent Laws

India has taken steps to come into compliance with a commitment it's made to the WTO regarding its intellectual property laws.  As one of the key changes affecting the bioscience industry, India now recognizes foreign patents (although the law is up for ratification in February at the next parliamentary session, there does not appear to be any serious doubt that it will be ratified). This was a big sticking point with many foreign companies for years as India became known for producing generic versions of many blockbuster drugs that take large bites out of their market share and revenue.