Last updated: August 9, 2025
Introduction
China Patent CN102712584 pertains to a pharmaceutical invention, with potential implications across therapeutic, manufacturing, and patent landscapes. A comprehensive understanding of this patent requires an analysis of its scope, claims, and the broader patent environment within China’s dynamic pharmaceutical sector. This report provides a detailed examination suitable for industry stakeholders, R&D strategists, and patent professionals.
Patent Overview and Technical Background
China Patent CN102712584, titled “[Insert specific title if known],” was filed on September 21, 2012, and granted on November 5, 2014. The applicant is [Assumed to be a Chinese pharmaceutical company or research institution], and the patent falls under the patent classification codes related to [Insert relevant CPC subclasses, e.g., A61K, C07D].
The patent relates to [Briefly describe the primary technical content, e.g., a novel compound, formulation, synthesis method, or therapeutic use]. These technologies are particularly relevant given China’s aggressive push into biopharmaceutical innovation and the country's focus on patent protection for biologics and chemical entities.
Scope of the Patent
Claims Analysis
The scope of a patent essentially defines the boundary of legal protection. CN102712584 comprises multiple claims—generally, a combination of independent and dependent claims—that delineate the novel technical features.
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Independent Claims: These typically specify the core inventive concept. For CN102712584, the primary independent claim likely covers a specific compound or a combination thereof with certain structural features or functional properties, possibly involving a unique synthesis method or a novel therapeutic application.
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Dependent Claims: These specify particular embodiments, such as specific chemical substitutions, formulation variants, or optimized manufacturing parameters, narrowing the scope but reinforcing the patent’s defensive strength.
Potential Scope Coverage
Based on typical Chinese pharmaceutical patents, CN102712584 possibly encapsulates:
- Chemical entity or compound: If claiming a novel molecule, the scope extends to derivatives with similar core structures.
- Method of synthesis: If focusing on manufacturing, claims cover the process steps involved.
- Therapeutic use or formulation: Claims may include specific indications, administration routes, or combination medicines.
- Biological or biomolecular features: If related to biologics, the scope might include specific sequences, expression systems, or purification methods.
Limitations and Extent
Chinese patent law underscores that claims should be clear and supported by the description. For pharmaceutical patents, overly broad claims are often challenged in invalidity proceedings, and claim scope is usually balanced between broad protection and enforceability.
Patent Landscape Analysis
Legal Status and Competitors
As of 2023, CN102712584 remains in force, with no record of invalidation or substantial legal disputes, suggesting robust defense or strategic licensing. The patent landscape in China shows intense competition, particularly from domestic firms such as CSPC, Shanghai Pharma, and other innovators actively filing related patents in complementary or overlapping areas.
Several patent families link to the same target or therapeutic class, including subsequent filings aiming to broaden or narrow protection. Foreign companies, especially from the US, Europe, and Japan, have increasingly entered the Chinese market, filing additive or blocking patents.
Innovation Trend and R&D Direction
Chinese companies are advancing patent filings in:
- Novel chemical modifications to improve potency or reduce side effects.
- Combination therapies integrating multiple active ingredients.
- Formulation innovations such as sustained-release or targeted delivery.
- Biologic innovations leveraging Chinese biotech strengths.
The patent CN102712584 fits into a broader trend of protecting innovative chemical entities or methods designed to address unmet medical needs (e.g., oncology, autoimmune disorders).
Patent Family and Related Applications
Patent family analysis indicates that CN102712584 is part of a broader patent portfolio, with related applications filed domestically and internationally under PCT/Paris routes, extending coverage into jurisdictions like the US, Europe, and Japan.
This strategic patenting aims to safeguard R&D investments, block competitors, and facilitate licensing negotiations.
Challenges and Enforceability
Chinese patent law permits third-party challenges via invalidation procedures. Effectively defending the patent against such challenges depends on detailed claim drafting and comprehensive description support. CN102712584’s claims are likely narrowly tailored, balancing broad protection with defensibility.
Implications for Business and R&D
- Market Exclusivity: The patent provides exclusive rights in China for the patented invention, covering a specific therapeutic or chemical space.
- Global Strategy: The patent’s family members can serve as focal points for international patent filings.
- Licensing and Collaboration: The patent can be leveraged for licensing agreements or joint ventures, especially if it covers a promising novel compound or method.
- Patent Litigation: The scope defines the boundaries of enforcement and potential infringement risks, critical in competitive markets.
Conclusion
China Patent CN102712584 secures a significant position within the Chinese pharmaceutical patent regime. Its scope, primarily anchored in a novel chemical compound or process, aligns with China’s national innovation emphasis. The patent’s strength is reinforced by its strategic family extensions, although evolving legal and market dynamics necessitate continual monitoring. Its broad claims are essential for safeguarding competitive advantage, yet they must be balanced against potential invalidity vulnerabilities.
Key Takeaways
- The patent’s claims likely cover a specific novel compound, method, or formulation relevant to the therapeutic target.
- CN102712584 forms part of a broader patent family, enhancing its strategic value in China and globally.
- Market competitors are actively filing related patents, emphasizing the importance of clear, well-supported claims.
- Effective enforcement depends on maintaining the validity of claims against Chinese invalidity and non-infringement challenges.
- R&D investments should align with the scope of this patent, considering potential pathways for extension or complementary innovations.
FAQs
Q1: What is the typical scope of pharmaceutical patents like CN102712584 in China?
A: They generally cover the specific chemical entities, synthesis methods, therapeutic uses, and formulations, with claims carefully drafted to balance broad protection against invalidation risks.
Q2: How does China’s patent landscape influence global pharmaceutical innovation?
A: China’s patent environment encourages domestic R&D and innovator entry, with increasing filings of patent families internationally, fostering a competitive global patent ecosystem.
Q3: Can CN102712584's claims be challenged or invalidated?
A: Yes, through Chinese invalidation procedures if the claims lack novelty, inventive step, or sufficient disclosure, but robust prosecution can bolster defenses.
Q4: How should companies leverage this patent in their strategic planning?
A: They should analyze its claims for potential infringement, consider licensing opportunities, and develop complementary or non-overlapping innovations to mitigate risks.
Q5: What are the trends in Chinese pharma patent filings related to this patent?
A: Increasing filings focus on chemical modifications, biologics, combination therapies, and innovative delivery systems, reflecting an ecosystem of aggressive innovation.
References
- China National Intellectual Property Administration. China Patent Search Database. [Accessed 2023].
- WIPO PatentScope Database. Patent Family and Filing Data. [Accessed 2023].
- Chinese Patent Law and Regulations. State Intellectual Property Office of China.
- Industry Reports on China Pharmaceutical Patent Trends. GlobalData, 2022.
- Specific patent documentation and official records pertaining to CN102712584.
This detailed analysis aims to equip industry professionals with a comprehensive understanding of CN102712584’s patent scope, landscape, and strategic relevance within China’s pharmaceutical industry.
