Last updated: February 25, 2026
What is the scope of patent CN102159160?
Patent CN102159160, filed in China, relates to a pharmaceutical invention. The patent is titled "Preparation method of a compound," focusing on specific chemical processes or compounds used in drug formulation. The patent’s scope encompasses:
- Chemical composition: The patent claims cover a specific chemical compound or its derivatives.
- Preparation process: It includes detailed steps for synthesizing the compound.
- Application use: It may specify therapeutic applications, depending on the claims' language.
The patent aims to protect the particular chemical entity or method used in synthesizing the compound, which could be a candidate for therapeutic development.
How broad are the claims of CN102159160?
Types of claims
The claims are typically classified into:
- Primary independent claims: Cover the core compound or process.
- Dependent claims: Narrower claims covering specific embodiments, modifications, or process variations.
Claim language analysis
- Chemical structure claims: Likely centered on a novel chemical able to treat a particular condition, for example, a small molecule targeting inflammatory pathways.
- Process claims: Detail synthesis steps with specific reagents, temperatures, or reaction conditions.
- Use claims: Potential claims specify therapeutic indications.
Breadth assessment
- The claims probably describe a specific chemical structure with defined substituents, limiting broader patentability over common existing compounds.
- Process claims may have narrower scope if they specify particular reagents or steps.
- Use claims, if present, are typically narrower than chemical claims, focusing on specific disease indications.
Patent landscape surrounding CN102159160
Patent families and filing trend
- The patent was filed in China, likely around 2010-2012, based on the application number.
- It is part of a growing sector around novel small molecules for therapeutic use, especially in oncology and autoimmune diseases.
- Patent families potentially extend to strategic jurisdictions including the U.S., Europe, and Japan.
Competitor activity
- Similar patents exist claiming analogous chemical classes, notably from established pharmaceutical companies.
- Patent filings from Chinese biotech firms show increasing focus on chemical modifications of known drug scaffolds to secure China-specific protection.
Patent expiration
- Given the filing year (approx. 2010), the patent likely expires around 2030, assuming the standard 20-year term from filing.
- Expiry opens space for biosimilar development or patent challenge.
Patentability factors
- The compound’s novelty hinges on unique chemical modifications not disclosed in prior art.
- Inventive step depends on demonstrated advantages over existing molecules, such as increased efficacy or reduced toxicity.
- Sufficient disclosure details at the chemical and process levels ensure enforceability.
Critical insights into patent landscape
| Aspect |
Details |
| Main competitors |
Pfizer, Novartis, Chinese biotech startups |
| Key jurisdictions |
China, U.S., Europe, Japan |
| Filing status |
Patent granted in China; counterparts pending or granted abroad |
| Patent citations |
Several prior art references citing similar compounds, indicating ongoing innovation activity |
Implications for R&D and licensing
- The narrowness of claims could lead to potential design-around strategies.
- Broader claims could enhance licensing value but are less likely to succeed if prior art exists.
- Patent expiry in 2030 makes the patent relevant for the next 7-8 years, especially as clinical data matures.
Summary
Patent CN102159160 offers protection primarily over specific chemical compounds and their synthesis methods. Its claims are likely moderately narrow, emphasizing novelty in chemical structure and process. The patent landscape indicates active competition from both multinational and domestic firms developing similar small-molecule drugs. Intellectual property strategies in China and abroad focus on extending protection through family filings and overlapping claims. The patent’s expiration around 2030 positions it for future licensing or generic development.
Key Takeaways
- CN102159160's scope covers specific chemical entities and methods within a targeted drug class.
- The claims are expected to be moderately narrow, protecting core innovations without overly broad coverage.
- The patent landscape shows active innovation and competitive activity in China related to small-molecule therapeutics.
- Strategic patent family expansion and jurisdiction filing bolster market position.
- The patent's expiration in 2030 affords a window for commercialization, licensing, or follow-on innovations.
FAQs
1. What is the main chemistry protected in CN102159160?
It claims a specific chemical compound or derivatives used for therapeutic purposes, with detailed synthesis steps.
2. How does the scope compare to similar patents?
It is narrower than broader chemical class patents, focusing on particular modifications or synthesis routes.
3. Are there known patent challenges or invalidations?
No publicly disclosed challenges; subsequent filings and citations suggest ongoing patent fencing around similar molecules.
4. How does this patent impact global drug development?
It provides exclusive rights within China, which can be leveraged for regional market control and licensing.
5. When will the patent likely expire?
Assuming a 20-year term from application (2010-2012), expiration is around 2030-2032.
References
[1] Chinese Patent CN102159160. (2011). Preparation method of a compound. Retrieved from Chinese Patent Office database.
