From BioPharmaDive.com…
Dive Brief:
- Two biotech companies on Monday sued Moderna in U.S. federal court over claims the COVID-19 vaccine maker infringed on six patents they hold that describe technology important to the delivery of messenger RNA shots into the body.
- The 51-page lawsuit, filed by Arbutus Biopharma and partner Genevant Sciences in the U.S. District Court for the District of Delaware, alleges that Moderna used their technology in its coronavirus vaccine and repeatedly refused to “engage meaningfully” in licensing negotiations.
- In a statement emailed to BioPharma Dive, Moderna denied Arbutus and Genevant’s allegations and said it would defend itself in court. The company added that its vaccine is the product of years of mRNA research and development, including the creation of proprietary delivery technology different than Arbutus and Genevant’s.
Dive Insight:
Arbutus and Genevant’s lawsuit escalates a yearslong dispute with Moderna that’s already wound its way through a federal patent appeal board and a federal appeals court.
