Last updated: February 20, 2026
What is the scope of patent CA2793974?
Patent CA2793974, filed by Bristol-Myers Squibb, covers a specific epitope of the PD-1 receptor and its use in immunotherapy. It claims the composition of matter of antibodies or fragments that specifically bind to this epitope, along with methods for their use in treating cancer.
The patent claims a monoclonal antibody that targets a defined PD-1 epitope, including its antibody fragments—such as Fab and scFv—and methods of administering these antibodies for oncological treatments. It specifies the antibody's binding affinity, its variable region sequences, and methods of producing the antibody.
The patent's scope extends to therapeutic applications, specifically using these antibodies to block PD-1 signaling pathways to activate T-cell responses against tumors. It also includes claims directed to pharmaceutical compositions comprising the antibodies.
How broad are the claims?
The claims are moderately broad, primarily covering:
- Specific monoclonal antibodies binding to a defined PD-1 epitope.
- Antibody fragments with similar binding properties.
- Methods of treatment involving administration of these antibodies.
- Pharmaceutical compositions including the antibodies.
Claims do not, however, encompass all anti-PD-1 antibodies broadly. They focus narrowly on specific sequences and binding characteristics disclosed in the patent, limiting scope to particular embodiments rather than entire classes of PD-1 inhibitors.
What is the patent landscape surrounding this patent?
Key related patents and applications:
| Patent/Application Number |
Title & Assignee |
Publication Date |
Focus |
Notable Claims |
| US 8,984,388 |
PD-1 antibodies by BMS |
March 31, 2015 |
Anti-PD-1 antibodies (including nivolumab) |
Binding to PD-1, therapeutic use |
| WO 2014/147512 |
PD-1 blocking antibodies |
October 9, 2014 |
Antibodies targeting PD-1 epitopes |
Similar target epitopes and methods |
| EP 2851293 |
PD-1 binding antibodies |
July 30, 2014 |
Therapeutic antibodies for cancer |
Specific sequences and manufacturing |
Patent family and jurisdiction coverage:
- The patent family includes counterparts in the US, Europe, and other jurisdictions.
- The patent provides a foundation for Bristol-Myers Squibb's portfolio around anti-PD-1 therapeutics.
- It complements the company’s broader patent estate on nivolumab and related compounds, restricting competitors' access to specific PD-1 epitopes.
Patent expiration:
- The patent was granted on June 21, 2016, with expiry in 2033, assuming maintenance fees are paid.
- It remains enforceable in Canada, providing exclusivity for the claimed antibodies during this period.
Implications for competitors and R&D
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The patent's scope limits competitors from developing antibodies that specifically target the epitope described.
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Competing anti-PD-1 patents typically focus on different epitopes or antibody sequences.
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Developers of generic biosimilars or biosimilar candidates must navigate these claims carefully, especially when developing antibodies similar in binding profile.
Key competitive and legal considerations:
- The patent’s claims cover defined amino acid sequences and binding properties, which are critical for designing alternative antibodies.
- Any attempts to develop ‘biosimilar’ anti-PD-1 therapies must consider whether their antibodies fall outside these claims.
- Risks of infringement are high if a candidate antibody matches the claimed binding epitope or sequence described.
Key Takeaways
- CA2793974 claims specific monoclonal antibodies targeting a PD-1 epitope crucial for immunotherapy.
- The patent's scope includes antibody compositions, binding methods, and therapeutic applications.
- It forms a critical part of Bristol-Myers Squibb’s IP estate, covering key aspects of their anti-PD-1 portfolio.
- The patent landscape is crowded but delineates specific epitopic targets, influencing biosimilar development.
- Expiry is expected in 2033, providing long-term market exclusivity in Canada.
FAQs
Q1. Can I develop a new anti-PD-1 antibody that does not bind the claimed epitope?
Yes, if your antibody binds a different epitope or sequence outside the scope of the claims, it may not infringe.
Q2. Does this patent cover all anti-PD-1 antibodies?
No, it specifically covers those binding to a defined epitope with particular sequences and characteristics.
Q3. Are there similar patents in the US and Europe?
Yes. The patent family includes counterparts with comparable claims in major jurisdictions.
Q4. When does patent CA2793974 expire?
Potential expiry in 2033, subject to maintenance fees.
Q5. How does this patent impact biosimilar development?
It restricts development of biosimilars that target the same epitope or use similar antibody sequences, requiring circumvention strategies.
References
- Patent CA2793974. (2016). Monoclonal antibodies targeting PD-1. [Online]. Available at the Canadian Intellectual Property Office.
- US Patent 8,984,388. (2015). PD-1 antibodies.
- WO 2014/147512. (2014). Anti-PD-1 antibodies.
- EP 2851293. (2014). Therapeutic antibodies targeting PD-1.
