Moderna Secures Victory in Patent Dispute

In a landmark decision, a Dusseldorf court has sided with Moderna in its patent infringement case against Biontech and Pfizer. The court has mandated that Biontech and Pfizer disclose their profits and compensate Moderna for the unauthorized use of its patented mRNA technology.

Claims of Unauthorized Use

Moderna alleged that Biontech and Pfizer utilized its innovations, developed between 2010 and 2016, in their COVID-19 vaccine without proper authorization. The defendants argued that a statement issued by Moderna in 2020 granted them permission to use the patent until May 5, 2023, coinciding with the WHO's declaration ending the pandemic. However, the court found that Moderna had revoked this authorization in March 2022.

Potential for Appeal

While the court's decision marks a significant win for Moderna, it is not yet final. Biontech and Pfizer may appeal the ruling, potentially bringing the case before the Dusseldorf Higher Regional Court.