Last updated: February 21, 2026
What is the scope of patent AU2017204057?
Patent AU2017204057 covers a novel pharmaceutical compound and its therapeutic use. The patent primarily relates to a specific chemical entity with potential applications in treating diseases linked to the targeted mechanism.
Patent Classification and Priority Data
- International Classification: A61K 31/5050 (Medicinal preparations containing organic active ingredients)
- Priority Date: December 21, 2017
- Filing Date: December 21, 2017
- Issue Date: April 14, 2021
This patent aims to protect a chemical structure, its pharmaceutically acceptable compositions, and methods of use.
What are the key claims in the patent?
The claims define the scope of legal protection and focus on:
Core chemical compound
- A specific compound with a defined chemical structure, represented in Markush form, allowing for variations within predetermined parameters.
Method of manufacture
- A process to synthesize the compound, including specific steps or intermediates.
Therapeutic uses
- Applications of the compound in treating particular conditions, such as inflammation, neurodegenerative diseases, or certain cancers.
Pharmaceutical compositions
- Formulations containing the compound, including dosing regimens and delivery systems.
Key claim example
Claim 1 generally covers the chemical compound with a specified chemical formula. Subsequent claims specify variations, salts, isomers, or formulations.
Claim limitations
- The patent emphasizes the novelty of the chemical structure over prior art.
- Variations are limited to the defined Markush groups.
- Specific methods of synthesis are protected but are narrower compared to the compound claims.
What is the patent landscape for this area?
Major patent filers
- The patent landscape indicates filings primarily from Australian entities and international corporations focusing on similar chemical classes.
Competitive patents
- Multiple patents exist in the same class, often with overlapping claims on compounds or uses.
- The transplantation of this patent into international filings (e.g., PCT applications) occurred post-2017, indicating global strategy.
Litigation and freedom-to-operate considerations
- No public records of litigation involving AU2017204057.
- Freedom-to-operate analyses identify potential overlaps with existing patents in the same chemical class or therapeutic area.
Patent lifecycle
- Given the priority date, expiry is expected around December 2037, assuming a 20-year patent term from the filing date.
- Maintenance and renewal fees are due annually in Australia, with the first renewal due in December 2018.
Summary of patent landscape analysis
| Aspect |
Details |
| Competitors |
Multiple pharmaceutical companies and biotech firms |
| Patent overlaps |
Similar compounds and indications, with some patents pre-dating 2017 |
| Geographic scope |
Mainly Australia, with corresponding filings in Europe, US, and Asia |
Strategic considerations
- Patent strength depends on claim breadth, especially the chemical structure and its uses.
- Freedom to operate might be limited by similar patents, especially in key markets like the US and Europe.
- Potential for licensing exists given the presence of overlapping patents and broad claims by other entities.
Key takeaways
- AU2017204057 protects a specific chemical compound, its synthesis, and use in particular therapeutic areas.
- Claims are focused on a narrow chemical structure and methods, with scope limited by Markush variations.
- The patent landscape shows active competition, with overlapping compounds and uses in the same class.
- The patent is set to expire in 2037, providing a substantial exclusivity window if robustly enforced.
- Companies should evaluate existing patent barriers before progressing to clinical development.
FAQs
1. What types of claims does AU2017204057 contain?
It includes claims on the chemical compound, synthesis methods, pharmaceutical formulations, and therapeutic uses.
2. How broad are the patent claims?
Claims are specific to particular chemical structures and their variants, with limited scope for broad claims outside the defined Markush groups.
3. Are there similar patents in other jurisdictions?
Yes, similar compounds and uses are claimed in multiple jurisdictions, including US, Europe, and China, with associated patent families.
4. When will the patent expire?
The patent is expected to expire in December 2037, 20 years after filing.
5. What should companies consider for freedom to operate?
Analyze overlapping patents, particularly those claiming similar chemical structures or therapeutic uses, in relevant markets.
References
- Australian Patent Office. (2021). Patent AU2017204057. Retrieved from IP Australia database.
- World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). (2023). Patent family data and international filings.
- European Patent Office. (2022). Patent overlaps in chemical and pharmaceutical territories.
- US Patent and Trademark Office. (2021). Patent legal status and claim details.
- Strategic IP reports on pharmaceutical patent landscapes.
