Second HeLa Lawsuit Resolved As Novartis Reaches Confidential Settlement - Novartis (NYSE:NVS)

Core Viewpoint - Novartis AG has reached a confidential settlement with the family of Henrietta Lacks regarding the unauthorized use of her cells in medical research, marking a significant resolution in the ongoing legal matters surrounding the HeLa cell line [1][2]. Settlement Details - The settlement was reached outside of court, with both parties confirming the arrangement but not disclosing financial terms. A joint statement expressed satisfaction with the private resolution [2]. - The lawsuit was filed nearly 70 years after Lacks' death, with her family arguing that companies profited from cells taken without consent. The estate has pursued multiple legal actions against pharmaceutical firms [2]. Background on HeLa Cells - In 1951, a tissue sample was taken from Henrietta Lacks during cancer treatment at Johns Hopkins Hospital without her knowledge. Her cells, known as HeLa cells, were unique in that they could multiply indefinitely in laboratory conditions [3]. - HeLa cells have significantly advanced research in vaccines and disease studies globally, contributing to breakthroughs in polio, HIV, and cancer research, as recognized by the World Health Organization [3]. Family's Experience - Henrietta Lacks passed away at the age of 31, shortly after her diagnosis. Her family remained unaware of the extensive use of her cells for decades and did not receive any compensation during the commercialization of the HeLa cell line [4]. Prior Legal Actions - In 2023, Lacks' family settled with Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. under undisclosed terms, while additional lawsuits against other pharmaceutical companies are still ongoing. Attorney Ben Crump stated that the recent agreement provides long-overdue accountability [5].