This article pinpoints the reason why I think companies should not be allowed to use the work done here to create patents on cures or treatments that are direct derivatives of the grids work.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/4059147.stm

The reason for patents is to allow the companies to get compensation for very expensive work that they need to do to create a cure or treatment. Since the grid is going to start doing major portions of work that companies will no longer need to pay for, I don't believe they should be allowed to patent derivative works based on the FREELY DONATED work done here.

I believe if they are allowed to patent derivative works we will see a huge increase in exactly what this article is talking about. Drug companies will see a huge decrease in their overhead costs because they will be getting major amounts of work done here for free. I'm willing to bet that their costs will continue to soar in every country around the world though, including 3rd world countries.