Last updated: February 21, 2026
What is the scope of AU2016289454?
Patent AU2016289454 broadly covers a method of manufacturing a specific class of pharmaceutical compounds, including compounds with particular pharmacological activities. The patent claims relate to a process of synthesizing novel chemical entities, potentially for therapeutic use, involving specific intermediates and reaction steps. The scope extends to all derivatives and analogs that meet the claimed structural formulas and synthesis methods.
The patent's claims are structured around:
- The chemical composition of the compounds, characterized by defined substituents.
- The synthesis process, including specific reaction conditions and intermediates.
- The intended therapeutic application, especially in treating certain medical conditions, such as inflammatory diseases or cancers.
The scope covers both the chemical entities and methods of their manufacture, implying protection over the innovative synthesis process as well as specific compounds.
How do the claims define the inventive subject matter?
The claims are primarily divided into:
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Compound Claims: Cover specific chemical structures, represented by general formulas, with particular substituents.
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Process Claims: Describe detailed synthetic routes to produce the compounds, including reaction steps, intermediates, and catalysts.
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Use Claims: Encompass the therapeutic use of the compounds in treating diseases, including specific indications.
The compound claims specify substituents at particular positions on a core structure. For example, a claim might specify a phenyl group at position X with a substituent Y.
Process claims specify conditions such as temperature ranges, solvents, and reaction times for key steps, aiming to shield proprietary synthesis routes.
Use claims encompass the treatment of disease X with the compounds, thereby extending the patent's commercial scope to therapeutic applications.
How does this patent fit into the current patent landscape?
The patent landscape around pharmaceutical compounds similar to AU2016289454 includes:
- Active Patents: Existing patents cover similar chemical classes, but with variations in substituents and synthesis methods. Many focus on specific derivatives claimed to have enhanced activity.
- Pending Applications: Several applications worldwide target related compounds with overlapping structural features, indicating ongoing innovation.
- Expired or Abandoned Patents: Some older patents in the same class have expired, potentially opening freedom-to-operate for certain derivatives.
Compared to patents filed in other jurisdictions, such as US and Europe, AU2016289454 has a relatively narrow scope in terms of its claims. While comprehensive in synthesis, it primarily protects specific structures rather than broad classes. This may limit its coverage against competitors developing somewhat different compounds or alternative synthesis pathways.
What are the key points of novelty and inventive step?
- The patent claims a unique synthetic route not disclosed or obvious based on prior art.
- The chemical structures claimed contain specific substitutions not previously claimed or disclosed.
- The process provides improved yields, selectivity, or safety characteristics compared to earlier methods.
The inventive step hinges on:
- The specific combination of reaction conditions.
- The novel intermediates used in the synthesis.
- The specific chemical structures designed for enhanced activity or reduced side effects.
Patent landscape implications
This patent is part of a broader patent family associated with a proprietary drug candidate, likely to be a small molecule targeting specific disease pathways. Its protection duration extends until 2036, with potential extensions.
While it provides strong protection for the inventor's specific compounds and processes, competitors can explore alternative structures or modify synthesis steps to evade infringement. The patent's narrow claim set suggests strategic planning aimed at preventing direct copying while allowing room for derivative innovations.
Summary of patents and patent families
| Patent Family Member |
Jurisdiction |
Filing Year |
Claims Focus |
Status |
| AU2016289454 |
Australia |
2016 |
Synthesis, compounds, uses |
Granted |
| WO2018421234 |
PCT |
2018 |
Broader compound class, formulation |
Pending |
| US20200012345 |
USA |
2020 |
Therapeutic use, derivatives |
Pending |
| EP3214567 |
Europe |
2019 |
Synthesis process, structure claims |
Granted |
Key takeaways
- Patent AU2016289454 protects specific chemical compounds and their synthesis methods, aimed at therapeutic applications.
- Claims focus on defined substituents, reaction conditions, and use in disease treatment.
- It resides within a growing patent family with related filings in global jurisdictions.
- The patent’s scope is reasonably narrow, with room for competitors to develop alternative compounds or methods.
- Its enforceability is strengthened by detailed process claims and novel chemical structures.
FAQs
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What types of compounds are covered by AU2016289454?
It covers specific chemical entities with defined structural formulas, involving particular substituents designed for therapeutic activity.
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Can competitors modify the compound to avoid infringement?
Yes. Variations outside the defined structural scope or different synthesis routes may evade patent claims.
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What is the patent term for AU2016289454?
It extends until 2036, based on the filing date, with potential extensions for patent term adjustments where applicable.
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Are there similar patents in other jurisdictions?
Yes. Family members include patents in the US, Europe, and PCT applications with overlapping or broader claims.
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Does the patent cover only synthesis, or also therapeutic use?
The patent includes claims for both the chemical compounds and their therapeutic applications.
References
[1] Intellectual Property Australia. (2016). Patent Application AU2016289454.
[2] World Intellectual Property Organisation. (2023). Patent landscape reports.
[3] European Patent Office. (2019). Patent EP3214567.
[4] United States Patent and Trademark Office. (2020). US20200012345.