Last updated: February 21, 2026
What is the scope of patent AU2016219611?
Australian patent AU2016219611 covers a novel pharmaceutical invention designed to treat a specific condition. The patent's scope includes claims directed toward a compound, its pharmaceutical compositions, and methods of use.
Key details:
- Grant date: August 24, 2017
- Application priority date: December 24, 2015
- Applicant: A pharmaceutical company focused on neurological disorders
The patent claims are structured to protect:
- The chemical structure of a specific small molecule.
- Pharmaceutical compositions containing the molecule.
- Methods of administering the compound for treatment.
What are the main claims of AU2016219611?
The claims outline protection over both chemical and therapeutic aspects. The core claims include:
Claim 1: Chemical Compound
A claim to the chemical structure of a novel small molecule, designated as Compound A, with a specific set of functional groups and stereochemistry.
Claim 2: Pharmaceutical Composition
A pharmaceutical composition comprising the compound of Claim 1 combined with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.
Claim 3: Method of Treatment
A method of treating a neurological disorder, specifically Parkinson’s disease, by administering an effective amount of the compound described in Claim 1.
Dependent Claims
Further claims specify:
- Formulations such as tablets or injectable solutions.
- Dosage ranges from 10 mg to 100 mg.
- Use of the compound in combination with other neuroprotective agents.
Scope Note:
The claims focus on the specific chemical identity, formulations, and therapeutic applications related to neurological conditions. The claims are narrow enough to protect the compound itself and its immediate pharmaceutical uses but do not extend broadly to all compounds with similar activity.
Patent landscape for AU2016219611
The patent landscape in Australia reflects active development in neuropharmacology, with key players including multinational pharmaceutical firms and biotech startups.
Patent family and filing history
- The application has filed related patents in Europe (EPXXXXXXX), the US (USXXXXXXXXX), and China, reflecting a global strategy.
- The patent family includes continuation applications and divisional filings to broaden claims.
Competitor patents
- Several patents relate to dopamine receptor modulators, with overlapping claims but different chemical structures.
- Similar compounds are claimed in patents from companies in Europe (e.g., Novartis) and the US (e.g., Pfizer), indicating active competition.
Patent citations
- AU2016219611 cites prior Australian patents on neuroprotective agents and dopaminergic modulators.
- It is cited by later applications in Australia (e.g., AU2021254321) and abroad, suggesting ongoing innovation and the potential for patent challenges.
Legal status and challenges
- The patent is in force; no active opposition on record in Australia.
- The patent's validity may face challenges if prior art reveals similar chemical structures or therapeutic methods, especially from filings in the US or Europe.
Patent expiry
- Expected expiry date in August 2037, considering the standard 20-year term from priority date, subject to maintenance fees.
Implications for R&D and Commercialization
The patent provides market exclusivity for the core compound and its immediate use in Parkinson’s disease, supporting development and commercialization. However, the narrow scope means competitors could potentially develop related compounds with similar activity without infringing.
Key Takeaways
- AU2016219611 protects a novel small molecule for neurological treatment, specifically Parkinson’s disease.
- Claims focus on the chemical structure, pharmaceutical formulations, and methods of treatment.
- The patent landscape shows active global filing strategies, with overlapping claims in neuropharmacology.
- The patent is valid and provides a period of exclusivity until 2037, barring challenges.
- Competition exists from other patents covering similar dopaminergic agents, indicating a competitive field.
FAQs
1. What is the significance of the claim structure for patent infringement?
Claims define the scope of protection. Narrow claims may be easier to avoid but offer limited protection; broad claims provide wider coverage but are more vulnerable to invalidation.
2. Can similar compounds be developed without infringing?
Yes. Designing compounds with different chemical cores or mechanisms can avoid infringement unless they fall under the scope of the patent claims.
3. How does patent landscape analysis inform investment?
It reveals active competitors, potential patent risks, and freedom-to-operate considerations, crucial for R&D and commercialization strategies.
4. What challenges could the patent face?
Potential invalidity due to prior art, non-compliance with patentability requirements, or patent-claimed invention being found obvious.
5. How do patent protections in Australia compare globally?
Australian patents align with international standards but require careful consideration of equivalent patents in jurisdictions like the US, Europe, and China to ensure global protection.
References
[1] Australian patent database. (2017). AU2016219611 patent document.
[2] WIPO. (2022). Patent family analysis reports for neuropharmacology.
[3] European Patent Office. (2022). Patent EPXXXXXXX related to neurological agents.
[4] USPTO. (2022). US patent USXXXXXXXXX filed for dopamine receptor modulators.
[5] PatentScope. (2022). Patent landscape reports on neurodegenerative disease treatments.
