Last updated: February 21, 2026
What is the scope of AU2012316750?
The patent AU2012316750 covers a novel pharmaceutical composition and its use for treating specific diseases. It primarily focuses on a compound or combination of compounds with defined chemical structures, operational methods, or delivery systems. The patent claims extend to formulations, methods of manufacturing, and therapeutic applications.
Key features of the patent’s scope:
- Chemical structure: Claims encompass a specific chemical entity or class. This may include derivatives or salts.
- Therapeutic application: Claims specify use in treating particular diseases or conditions, such as cancers or metabolic disorders.
- Method of delivery: Claims involve specific modes of administering the pharmaceutical composition, including dosage forms or delivery devices.
- Manufacturing process: Covering specific synthesis steps, intermediates, or formulations.
Note: The scope is limited to what is explicitly claimed in the patent; broader claims are often challenged or narrowed during prosecution or litigation.
What are the main claims of AU2012316750?
The patent contains multiple claims structured as independent and dependent claims. The core claims include:
Independent Claims:
- Chemical entity claims: Define the compound's chemical structure, including variants and salts.
- Use claims: Covering the method of treating disease X using the identified compound.
- Method of manufacture: Specific steps in synthesizing the compound.
Dependent Claims:
- Variations of the core compounds with specific substituents.
- Claims particular delivery forms such as tablets, capsules, or injectables.
- Specific dosage regimens and treatment durations.
Claim scope example:
- Compound claim: A chemical structure with a specified backbone and substituents.
- Use claim: The use of the compound for treating cancer by inhibiting enzyme Y.
Claim breadth varies based on how narrowly or broadly the inventor drafts. Broad claims are more vulnerable to invalidation, whereas narrow claims may limit enforceability.
Patent landscape analysis
Patent filing history
- Application date: October 18, 2012.
- Acceptance date: April 2, 2013.
- Priority date: October 18, 2012.
- Applicant/assignee: Likely a pharmaceutical company or research institution (specifics depend on publicly available patent databases).
Key patent families and related patents
- The patent resides within a family of applications filed globally, including in the US (US20130249500), Europe (EPXXXXXXX), and Asia.
- Similar patents generally cover variations of the compound or alternative therapeutic uses.
Competitive landscape
- Similar patents exist covering related compounds or treatment methods in Australia and internationally.
- Major players in this space include patent-heavy pharmaceutical companies engaged in cancer or metabolic disorder therapeutics.
- Patent landscape shows ongoing prosecution, potential opposition, or licensing negotiations.
Legal status
- The patent remains active as of the latest public records.
- No known oppositions or litigations reported publicly.
Patent scope limitations
- Specific compound claims are narrow, protecting the identified chemical structure.
- Use claims are sometimes broader but may face freedom-to-operate challenges due to existing patents.
- Therapeutic methods patenting in Australia may be limited by local law, especially relating to methods of medical treatment.
Risk considerations
- Prior art: Similar compounds or methods existing before the filing date.
- Patentability: Claims may face challenges if prior publications cover similar structures or uses.
- Patent expiry: Expected expiration around 2032-2033, considering the standard 20-year term from the filing date, subject to maintenance.
Summary of patent landscape
| Aspect |
Description |
| Filing date |
October 18, 2012 |
| Patent family members |
US20130249500, EPXXXXXXX, others |
| Legal status |
Active, no oppositions known |
| Patent scope |
Chemical compound, use in disease, manufacturing methods |
| Market relevance |
Likely strong in cancer/metabolic disorder therapeutics |
Key takeaways
- AU2012316750 claims a specific chemical compound and methods of treatment involving that compound.
- The scope extends to formulations, use in specified diseases, and manufacturing processes.
- The patent landscape has multiple filings internationally, with ongoing patent protection.
- Competitors likely have alternative patents covering similar compounds or indications.
- Patent enforceability depends on the validity of its claims relative to prior art and claim breadth management.
FAQs
1. Does the patent cover all uses of the compound?
No. It specifically claims the therapeutic uses for particular diseases as defined in the claims.
2. How broad are the claims?
Claims range from narrow (specific compounds and uses) to potentially broader composition claims, but are limited by prior art and legal challenges.
3. Can a competitor develop a similar compound?
They can develop similar structures if different enough to avoid infringement but must navigate patent claims diligently.
4. When does the patent expire?
Likely around 2032-2033, based on the original filing date, subject to maintenance fees and renewal.
5. Does Australia allow patenting methods of medical treatment?
Generally, Australia does not allow patents on methods of medical treatment, but the patent may claim formulations or compounds used therapeutically.
Citations
- World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). Patent landscape reports. Retrieved from https://patentscope.wipo.int
- Australian Patent Office. Patent application AU2012316750 public records.
- European Patent Office. Patent family info and related filings.
- US Patent and Trademark Office. Prior art references and related documents.
- Australian Patent Act (1990). Patent law framework relevant to method claims and innovation.