Edward Reines of Weil, Gotshal & Manges

Bio-Rad Laboratories Inc. and the University of Chicago have won a $24 million patent infringement verdict against gene-sequencing startup 10x Genomics Inc.

A Delaware federal jury found that 10x willfully infringed all seven asserted patent claims, and turned back all of 10x's challenges to the patents' validity.

The patents relate to droplet microfluidic technology, in which genetic reactions are performed in a drop of water. A variety of 10x's genomics products were found to infringe.

“We are obviously pleased with the outcome of the case,” Bio-Rad CEO Norman Schwartz said in a written statement. “Bio-Rad remains committed to growing and protecting its portfolio of patents in the droplet microfluidics space and to delivering differentiated genomics technologies that enable world class research.”

The trial featured an all-star cast of patent litigators, with a team led by Weil, Gotshal & Manges Silicon Valley partner Edward Reines representing Bio-Rad. Assisting him were Weil counsel Derek Walter and Robert Vlasis and associates Amanda Branch and Christopher Lavin, plus local counsel Brian and Michael Farnan of Farnan LLP.

10x, a late-stage venture company backed by Softbank, Fidelity Investments and others, was represented by Matthew Powers of Tensegrity Law Group, along with counsel from Irell & Manella; Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison; Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe; and Richards, Layton & Finger.

“The jury’s diligence and the power of University of Chicago’s patents is vividly shown by the more than 100 favorable verdict questions and the award of all relief requested,” Reines said.