Bayer Files Lawsuit Against COVID Vaccine Makers Over mRNA Tech

• Bayer claims the companies copied Monsanto's 1980s technology for strengthening mRNA in crops to stabilize genetic material in COVID vaccines
• Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna each earned over $3 billion from their vaccines in 2024, though this represents a fraction of peak pandemic sales
• Bayer did not develop COVID vaccines itself and is only seeking monetary compensation, not production injunctions, while J&J already discontinued its vaccine in the U.S. in 2023

Summary: Bayer Sues COVID Vaccine Makers Over mRNA Patent Infringement

Key Development: Bayer's Monsanto division filed patent infringement lawsuits on Tuesday, January 6, against major COVID-19 vaccine manufacturers in federal courts. Pfizer, BioNTech, and Moderna were sued in Delaware, while Johnson & Johnson faces a separate suit in New Jersey.

Core Allegation: Bayer claims the vaccine makers misappropriated messenger RNA technology originally developed by Monsanto scientists in the 1980s for agricultural applications. The technology was designed to reduce mRNA instability in crops for pest resistance, which Bayer alleges was copied to stabilize genetic material in COVID vaccines. The J&J lawsuit involves a DNA-based manufacturing process.

Financial Context:

• Pfizer and BioNTech generated over $3.3 billion in 2024 revenue from Comirnaty
• Moderna earned $3.2 billion from Spikevax in 2024
• These figures represent a significant decline from peak pandemic sales
• J&J discontinued its COVID vaccine in the U.S. in 2023

Important Details:

• Bayer seeks unspecified monetary damages but is not requesting to block vaccine production
• Bayer was not involved in COVID vaccine development and doesn't manufacture vaccines
• This adds to existing patent litigation, including Moderna's 2022 lawsuit against Pfizer

Market Implications: The lawsuits could result in substantial financial liabilities for the vaccine makers, though their immediate business operations remain unaffected. The case highlights ongoing intellectual property disputes in the lucrative vaccine market and potential licensing revenue opportunities for patent holders. The outcome may influence future mRNA technology commercialization and IP strategy across pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors.