Bayer’s Monsanto division filed a patent infringement lawsuit against Moderna, Pfizer, and BioNTech. The suit alleges the companies misused Monsanto’s messenger RNA (mRNA) technology during the manufacturing of their COVID-19 vaccines.
Monsanto claims the defendants copied technology developed in the 1980s. This original technology was designed to stabilize mRNA in crops; the defendants allegedly used the method to stabilize the genetic material within the vaccines.
Bayer seeks an unspecified amount in monetary damages. Crucially, the company is not attempting to block the defendants from manufacturing their vaccines.
A Moderna spokesperson confirmed awareness of the legal action, stating the company will defend itself. This lawsuit adds to the complex web of patent litigation surrounding the highly profitable COVID-19 shots.