Lessons from Laboratories Corp. of America Holdings v. Metabolite Laboratories, Inc.

This article provides reflections on the scope of patentable subject matter, using the Supreme Court's recent consideration of Laboratory Corp. of America Holdings v. Metabolite Laboratories,Inc. as a springboard for discussion. A brief introduction to the case and the current standard of patentable subject matter are provided as a backdrop for discussion of the role of patentable subject matter in the overall scheme of patentability and patent enforcement. In addition, this article addresses potential repercussions of the case within the judicial and legislative arenas. This article concludes by offering some broad-based issues for consideration, including both domestic and international implications.