The family of Henrietta Lacks has filed a lawsuit against pharmaceutical giants Novartis and Viatris, alleging they profited from her HeLa cells without consent. This action follows a previous settlement with Thermo Fisher Scientific, highlighting ongoing concerns about the exploitation of Lacks’ genetic material taken during her treatment for cervical cancer in 1951. The family claims these companies made conscious choices to commercialize her cells, which have been crucial in many medical advancements, including vaccines and gene mapping. The lawsuit seeks compensation for the unjust enrichment resulting from the use of these cells, which were taken without her knowledge. Attorney Chris Ayers emphasized the need for accountability, stating that the unethical origins of the HeLa cells must be addressed. The case underscores a broader narrative of medical racism and the ethical implications of using human biological materials in research.