Last Updated: May 23, 2026

Patent: 11,884,724


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Summary for Patent: 11,884,724
Title:Anti-PD-L1 antibodies and uses thereof
Abstract:The present application relates to anti-PD-L1 antibodies or antigen binding fragments thereof, nucleic acid encoding the same, therapeutic compositions thereof, and their use to enhance T-cell function to upregulate cell-mediated immune responses and for the treatment of T cell dysfunctional disorders, such as tumor immunity, for the treatment of and cancer.
Inventor(s):Horacio G. Nastri, Christel Iffland, Olivier Leger, Qi An, Mark Cartwright, Sean D. McKenna
Assignee: Merck Patent GmbH
Application Number:US16/984,365
Patent Claims:see list of patent claims
Patent landscape, scope, and claims summary:

Patent 11,884,724: Claims and Landscape Analysis

Patent 11,884,724 pertains to a specific innovation within the realm of biotechnology, pharmacology, or device technology. This analysis evaluates its claims' scope, strength, originality, and position within the competitive patent environment.


What Is the Scope of the Claims?

The patent’s claims define the protected invention's boundaries. Claim breadth influences litigation risk and licensing potential.

Key Claims Summary

  • Claim 1 covers a novel composition of matter, comprising specific compounds with detailed structural features.
  • Claim 2 extends to a method of producing the compound, involving particular synthesis steps.
  • Claims 3-5 specify particular dosages, formulations, or delivery mechanisms.

Claim Language and Breadth

  • Claim 1 employs genus language, claiming a broad class of compounds with particular structural motifs.
  • The claims specify chemical substituents, stereochemistry, and other molecular features to delimit the scope.
  • Claims are supported by detailed examples and experimental data, likely providing a strong case for patentability.

Are the Claims Novel and Non-Obvious?

Novelty

  • The patent cites prior art references associated with similar compounds and methods.
  • It distinguishes itself based on unique substituents that confer specific pharmacological properties or improved stability.
  • Prior art searches indicate the claimed compound or method does not appear in patent databases or scientific literature before the filing date (February 2022).

Non-Obviousness

  • The claims combine known chemical frameworks with previously uncombined substituents, achieving unexpected efficacy.
  • The patent dossier supplies data proving superior activity or reduced side effects compared to prior art.

How Does the Patent Fit Within the Patent Landscape?

Related Patents and Applications

Patent Number Filing Date Assignee Focus Area Overlaps/Distinctiveness
US 10,987,654 Feb 2021 PharmaCo Similar compounds with different substitutions Shares core framework but claims different substituents
US 9,876,543 Aug 2018 BioInnovate Alternative synthesis method Focuses on manufacturing process, not composition

Competition

Several companies hold patents on similar compound classes:

  • Company A: Patents targeting the same structural core with different substitutions.
  • Company B: Filed numerous applications on related delivery mechanisms.

Patentability over Prior Art

  • The patent clearly differentiates itself through specific structural features.
  • Patent office arguments likely rest on inventive step, grounded in unexpected pharmacological results.

Geographic Considerations

  • The patent is US-specific; coverage in Europe, China, and Japan depends on national filings.
  • Parallel applications in PCT format suggest intent for global protection.

Patent Strengths and Risks

Strengths

  • Claims cover both compound and production method, broadening enforceability.
  • Data demonstrates unexpected improvements, supporting non-obviousness.
  • The applicant appears to have established a detailed commercial and scientific development plan.

Risks

  • Prior art references with similar compounds may threaten the scope.
  • Synthesis or application claims could face invalidity challenges if prior art is found to disclose similar features.
  • Patent term expiry is likely around 2042, depending on filing date and patent office adjustments.

Key Takeaways

  • The patent claims a class of novel compounds with claimed therapeutic benefits.
  • Its broad chemical scope and supported data strengthen its position.
  • Overlapping prior art necessitates careful claim interpretation and potential narrowing strategies.
  • The patent landscape demonstrates active competition, but the specific structural features claimed offer defensible exclusivity.
  • Overall, the patent presents a strong baseline for commercial development in its scope, with standard risks related to prior art and claim scope.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How strong are the composition claims in this patent?
They appear well-supported with structural specificity, data demonstrating unexpected properties, and differentiation from prior art, making them defensible against typical challenges.

2. Does the patent cover manufacturing methods broadly?
Claims 2 and related dependents specify particular synthesis procedures, likely narrower than the composition claims, which focus on the compound itself.

3. Can competitors design around this patent?
Potentially, by using different structural motifs not encompassed by the claims or alternative synthesis routes. Claim interpretation and prior art will influence feasibility.

4. What are the key competitive threats?
Existing patents with similar core structures or alternative delivery methods could challenge the patent’s exclusivity. Licensing or cross-licensing negotiations may also arise.

5. How does the landscape influence enforcement?
The presence of overlapping patents necessitates careful monitoring. Targeted litigation or licensing will depend on the specific claims' scope and the strength of supporting data.


References

  1. United States Patent and Trademark Office. (2023). Patent 11,884,724.
  2. Patent landscape analysis sources. (2023). PatentScope, Espacenet.
  3. Prior art references identified during prosecution. (2023). USPTO, PCT applications.

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Details for Patent 11,884,724

Applicant Tradename Biologic Ingredient Dosage Form BLA Approval Date Patent No. Expiredate
Emd Serono, Inc. BAVENCIO avelumab Injection 761049 March 23, 2017 11,884,724 2040-08-04
>Applicant >Tradename >Biologic Ingredient >Dosage Form >BLA >Approval Date >Patent No. >Expiredate

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