Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Novartis Settles with Henrietta Lacks' Estate Over HeLa Cells

3/1/2026

45 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Novartis has settled with the estate of Henrietta Lacks.
In 1951, Henrietta Lacks's cells were taken without consent, and this settlement follows Thermo Fisher Scientific's 2023 agreement.
The lawsuit says companies profited from HeLa cells without compensating Lacks's descendants.
Civil rights attorney Ben Crump says the settlement advances justice and dignity, highlighting racial injustice and the need for ethical medical research.

1 of 1

Story summary

Novartis has settled with the estate of Henrietta Lacks.
In 1951, Henrietta Lacks's cells were taken without consent, and this settlement follows Thermo Fisher Scientific's 2023 agreement.
The lawsuit says companies profited from HeLa cells without compensating Lacks's descendants.
Civil rights attorney Ben Crump says the settlement advances justice and dignity, highlighting racial injustice and the need for ethical medical research.