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The SNP consortium: background and context
1University of Utah S.J. Quinney College of Law, Salt Lake City, UT, United States.
Journal of Law and the Biosciences
|May 21, 2026
Summary
The SNP Consortium (TSC) successfully identified and mapped human single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) ahead of schedule and under budget. Its innovative research model and patent strategy have influenced subsequent scientific collaborations.
Area of Science:
- Genomics
- Biotechnology
- Bioinformatics
Background:
- The SNP Consortium (TSC) was established in 1999 as a nonprofit research collaboration.
- Funded by pharmaceutical, biotech, and IT companies, plus the Wellcome Trust, with $53 million.
- The primary goal was to identify, map, and publicly release human single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs).
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the formation, structure, and achievements of the SNP Consortium (TSC).
- To analyze the novel 'protective' patent strategy employed by TSC.
- To highlight TSC as a model for future scientific research collaborations.
Main Methods:
- Formation of a nonprofit research consortium.
- Public release of identified and mapped human genomic markers (SNPs).
- Implementation of a unique 'protective' patent strategy.
Main Results:
- Completion of project goals ahead of schedule and under budget.
- Generation of more results than initially planned.
- Establishment of a successful model for large-scale scientific collaboration.
Conclusions:
- The SNP Consortium (TSC) demonstrated an effective model for collaborative research.
- TSC's approach to patenting facilitated public data release and future research.
- The consortium's success serves as a blueprint for interdisciplinary scientific endeavors.
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