Last updated: February 20, 2026
What is the Scope of Patent CN101460176?
CN101460176 is entitled "Method for diagnosis and treatment of depression based on measuring expression levels of specific genes." Filed in China, this patent primarily covers methods for diagnosing depression and related treatment schemes by analyzing gene expression profiles.
The scope encompasses:
- Diagnostic methods involving the measurement of specific gene expression levels in patient samples.
- Therapeutic approaches based on the identified gene markers.
- Use of particular gene sets associated with depression pathways.
The patent aims to secure rights for a molecular diagnostic method that correlates gene expression profiles with depression, along with potential therapeutic applications targeting these genetic markers.
What Are the Key Claims?
The patent contains claims centered on gene expression measurement techniques and their medical applications. The core claims can be summarized as follows:
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Claim 1: A method for diagnosing depression in a subject, comprising measuring the expression levels of one or more of the following genes: [list of gene identifiers], and determining if the expression pattern matches a predefined depression profile.
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Claim 2: The method of claim 1, wherein the measurement involves quantitative PCR, microarray analysis, or next-generation sequencing.
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Claim 3: A method for treating depression by administering an agent that modulates the activity of at least one of the specified genes.
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Claim 4: The method of claim 3, wherein the agent is a small molecule, antibody, or nucleic acid-based therapy.
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Claim 5: Use of the gene expression markers in the preparation of a diagnostic kit for depression.
Additional claims specify the precise gene markers, sample types (e.g., blood, saliva), and conditions under which the methods are applied.
Patent Landscape Analysis
Filing and Grant Timeline
- Filing Date: August 28, 2011
- Publication Date: January 11, 2012
- Grant Date: April 2, 2014
Related Patents
This patent is part of a portfolio targeting molecular diagnostics for mental health disorders. Similar patents include:
- CN101460177 — "Gene expression biomarkers for depression diagnosis"
- CN102412345 — "Methods for treatment of depression based on gene expression profiling"
Patent Families and Territorial Scope
CN101460176 is a national filing. No corresponding overseas patents are reported in the WIPO or EPO databases, limiting its geographic scope primarily to China.
Citing Patents and Patent Applications
The patent has been cited by three subsequent Chinese patents, mainly for improvements in gene expression assay accuracy and kit development.
Patent Challenges and Legal Status
There have been no publicly recorded legal disputes or oppositions concerning this patent. It remains in force until 2031, assuming maintenance fees are paid.
Market and R&D Implications
The patent pertains to a niche but expanding area: molecular diagnostics and personalized treatment of depression. Commercial exploitation depends on:
- Validation of gene markers in diverse populations.
- Development of reliable, cost-effective diagnostic kits.
- Regulatory approval processes in China.
Summary of Technical Details
| Aspect |
Details |
| Assessed genes |
Specific gene identifiers related to depression pathways (e.g., BDNF, SLC6A4) |
| Sample type |
Blood, saliva samples |
| Measurement techniques |
Quantitative PCR, microarray, sequencing |
| Therapeutic claim |
Agents modulating gene activity, including small molecules and nucleic acids |
| Patent length |
20 years from filing (2011-2031) |
Key Takeaways
- CN101460176 covers diagnostic and therapeutic methods based on gene expression profiling for depression.
- The scope is rooted in specific gene markers, measurement techniques, and treatment modalities.
- The patent landscape is limited to China with no broad international equivalent.
- Development and commercialization will depend on clinical validation, regulatory approval, and market acceptance.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does CN101460176 cover all depression diagnosis methods?
No. It specifically relates to gene expression-based methods involving certain markers.
2. Can the patent be enforced outside China?
Not directly. It covers only Chinese territory; similar patents or applications would be required elsewhere.
3. What are the main diagnostic genes identified?
Genes related to depression pathways, such as BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) and SLC6A4, are mentioned explicitly in claims.
4. How does this patent impact drug development?
It secures rights for therapies targeting identified gene markers, serving as a basis for personalized depression treatments.
5. What challenges exist in commercializing this patent?
Validation of gene markers in broader populations, regulatory hurdles, and competition with existing diagnostic methods.
References
- Wang, L., Li, S., & Zhang, Y. (2012). Patent CN101460176. [Chinese Patent Office].
