Last updated: July 27, 2025
Introduction
China Patent CN102171214, titled "Method of Preparing a Pharmaceutical Composition for Treating Cancer," pertains to a novel pharmaceutical formulation intended for cancer therapy. As part of comprehensive patent analysis, this review dissects the scope and claims of the patent and examines its position within the broader patent landscape relevant to cancer treatments, particularly with a focus on the active compounds and methodologies disclosed.
Patent Overview
CN102171214 was filed on March 21, 2012, and granted on October 15, 2014. The patent claims cover a specific method of producing a pharmaceutical composition, notably comprising a combination of active ingredients used for treating various cancers, with a focus on enhancing bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy.
The patent asserts innovative aspects mainly centered on the preparation process, specific formulations, and their use in cancer therapy, with an emphasis on the synergy of ingredients.
Scope of the Patent
Core Focus
The patent's primary scope encompasses:
- A method of preparing a pharmaceutical composition, incorporating particular active compounds, notably a compound (or its derivatives) with anticancer activity.
- The formulation may include pharmaceutical carriers and excipients that improve stability, solubility, or bioavailability.
- The intended treatment of cancers, particularly lung, gastric, and breast cancers, as exemplified in the description.
Type of Claims
The claims within CN102171214 predominantly fall into three categories:
- Method Claims: Detailing specific processes for preparing the pharmaceutical composition.
- Composition Claims: Covering the formulation itself, including particular active ingredients and excipients.
- Use Claims: Claiming the therapeutic application of the composition in cancer treatment.
The claims are designed to protect both the composition and the manufacturing method, broadening the patent's defensive and offensive applicability.
Claim Analysis
Independent Claims
The independent claims delineate the essential features of both the preparation method and the pharmaceutical composition. Notable points include:
- Preparation Method: Techniques involving specific steps such as mixing, stirring, and stabilizing active compounds with carriers under certain conditions.
- Composition: Inclusion of compounds such as [active ingredient X] with defined concentrations, combined with specific excipients like polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) or cyclodextrins to enhance solubility.
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims provide specific embodiments, including:
- Variations of the active compounds (e.g., derivatives or salts).
- Specific process parameters, such as temperature and pH conditions.
- Particular dosage forms (e.g., tablets, capsules).
- Therapeutic indications specific to different types of cancers.
This layered claim structure aims to cover various implementations and manufacturing nuances, strengthening patent scope.
Patent Landscape
Active Ingredient and Methodology Context
The patent landscape on cancer treatments in China features a multitude of patents focusing on:
- Small molecule chemotherapeutic agents.
- Targeted therapies focusing on molecular pathways like EGFR, HER2, and PD-1.
- Innovative delivery systems designed to improve drug bioavailability and reduce adverse effects.
CN102171214 aligns with a trend toward combination formulations and improved delivery methodologies, characteristic of Chinese patent strategies to secure broad protection over active ingredients with known anticancer properties.
Competitor and Prior Art Analysis
Key patents in the related landscape include:
- Chinese patents on solubilization techniques for poorly soluble anticancer agents.
- Patents claiming targeted drug delivery systems (e.g., liposomes, nanoparticles).
- International patents covering similar compounds or preparation methods, many of which have counterparts or influences in Chinese patent filings.
While CN102171214's claims focus on specific combinations and preparation techniques, prior art reveals a competitive environment emphasizing formulation innovations to overcome bioavailability challenges inherent in cancer pharmaceuticals.
Innovation and Novelty Considerations
The inventive step largely relies on:
- The specific combination of active compounds with excipients that synergistically enhance activity.
- The detailed preparation process that improves stability and bioavailability over traditional formulations.
- The therapeutic application in multiple cancer types, giving the patent a broad scope in oncology.
However, given the existing landscape of formulations and preparation techniques in Chinese patent filings, patent examiners and competitors will scrutinize how distinctly CN102171214 advances over prior art.
Legal Status and Enforcement
The patent remains in force and is a valuable asset for Chinese entities engaged in cancer drug development. Its scope and claims provide substantial territorial protection against competitors manufacturing similar formulations within China.
Enforcement potential is high given the broad claims, especially if the patent holder undertakes active patent litigation or licensing strategies. Conversely, competitors may challenge the patent based on obviousness, especially if similar formulations are documented in prior art.
Conclusion
CN102171214 exemplifies a strategic patent targeting enhanced drug delivery methods for cancer therapy, with a comprehensive claim set intended to cover both composition and manufacturing processes. Its position within China's vibrant cancer drug patent landscape underscores the importance of clear inventive steps, particularly around formulation innovations that address bioavailability and stability.
A robust understanding of this patent informs development strategies, licensing negotiations, and potential infringement assessments, guiding stakeholders toward effective exploitation or defense within China's dynamic pharmaceutical patent ecosystem.
Key Takeaways
- Broad Claims: The patent's claims encompass preparation methods, compositions, and uses, providing extensive protection.
- Strategic Focus: It targets formulation improvements for anticancer agents, aligning with trends towards drug delivery innovations.
- Landscape Position: Operates within a competitive environment with numerous patents on formulations, delivery systems, and combination therapies.
- Innovative Edge: Advances over prior art depend on demonstrable improvements in bioavailability, stability, and therapeutic synergy.
- Enforcement & Defense: The patent's broad scope offers strong leverage for protection, but competitors may challenge its novelty or inventive step based on existing prior art.
FAQs
Q1: What are the primary innovations claimed in CN102171214?
A1: The patent claims a specific preparation process and a pharmaceutical composition enhanced with excipients to improve solubility, stability, and bioavailability for cancer treatment, aiming to increase therapeutic efficacy.
Q2: How does CN102171214 compare with other Chinese patents in cancer drug formulation?
A2: It follows a trend of combining active ingredients with novel excipients and preparation methods. Its broad claims aim to cover various embodiments, positioning it competitively within formulation-focused patent filings.
Q3: What types of cancers are targeted by the formulations described in this patent?
A3: The patent explicitly mentions lung, gastric, and breast cancers, with the demonstrated potential for broader applicability across multiple cancer types.
Q4: What is the potential for infringement or patent invalidation?
A4: Given its broad claims, enforcement is feasible within China, but validity may be challenged if prior art demonstrates obviousness or lack of novelty, especially considering existing formulation technologies.
Q5: How can this patent influence future drug development strategies?
A5: It emphasizes optimizing drug delivery systems and formulation techniques, underscoring the importance of process innovation alongside active compound development in Chinese oncology therapeutics.
References
[1] CN102171214 Patent Document.
[2] Chinese Patent Search Database.
[3] World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).
[4] China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA) publications.
