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Henrietta Lacks' Estate Settles with Novartis Over Cell Use

2/27/2026

Summary

Story summary

The estate of Henrietta Lacks reached a settlement with Novartis over the unauthorized use of her cancer cells, taken in 1951.
The agreement ends litigation alleging Novartis profited from Lacks' cells, aiding medical advances including the polio vaccine.
Terms are confidential, marking the estate's second settlement after an earlier deal with Thermo Fisher.
Lawsuits against Viatris and Ultragenyx continue as the Lacks family seeks compensation for exploitation of her cells.

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Story summary

The estate of Henrietta Lacks reached a settlement with Novartis over the unauthorized use of her cancer cells, taken in 1951.
The agreement ends litigation alleging Novartis profited from Lacks' cells, aiding medical advances including the polio vaccine.
Terms are confidential, marking the estate's second settlement after an earlier deal with Thermo Fisher.
Lawsuits against Viatris and Ultragenyx continue as the Lacks family seeks compensation for exploitation of her cells.