Defending a Competitive Marketplace to Support Scientific Researchers Advancing Human Health

At NanoString, we are dedicated to providing tools and instruments to advance biomedical research, further scientific inquiry, and support improvements to human health. We are equally committed to advocating for a robust and healthy marketplace so researchers can select the tools they need to study the universe of biology.

NanoString’s spatial biology tools provide researchers with never-before-seen microscopic views, allowing scientists to vividly see the spatial context of gene expression and protein data right down to a single cell. Our platforms enable researchers to understand how and why healthy cells diverge from those that are diseased.

As an innovative company in a vitally important market, competition comes with the territory. We accept and welcome it. That said, one of our competitors, 10x Genomics (10x), has brought multiple patent infringement lawsuits against NanoString, in the US, Germany, and the European Union. We believe that their aim is to shrink the marketplace and control access to life sciences research tools. At least three other life sciences tools companies are also being sued by 10x. 

While we are confident in our legal defenses and counterclaims, and have strong grounds for our appeals, the cost of the litigation and 10x’s current demands for an extraordinary damage award has placed a significant strain on the company’s financial resources.

On February 4, 2024, NanoString voluntarily initiated chapter 11 restructuring, deploying a proven mechanism to address financial stress while we maintain business operations and serve customers. We are confident that this is the best course to shield the company from legal and financial threats to enable us to maintain innovation leadership in the marketplace.

NanoString believes it will emerge from restructuring as a stronger company. We are exploring several strategic options that support the continuation of our mission for the benefit of our customers, employees, and other stakeholders.

During this process, we will continue to speak up for the rights of scientists to have access to the tools they need to advance their research. A strong marketplace where companies compete vigorously to sell life science tools spurs innovation and lowers the cost of research. Patients are the ultimate beneficiaries.

You can find more information about the pending litigation and our restructuring plans below.