Last updated: July 29, 2025
Introduction
China Patent CN105307723, filed by Sinopharm Group Co., Ltd., pertains to a novel pharmaceutical invention. As the Chinese patent landscape evolves as a pivotal component to the global biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors, understanding the scope, claims, and related patent environment of CN105307723 offers essential insights for industry stakeholders, including innovating companies, licensors, generic manufacturers, and patent strategists.
This report provides a comprehensive review of the patent’s scope and claims, contextualizes its position within China's patent landscape, and explores the broader implications for patent monopoly, freedom to operate, and potential for licensing or litigation.
Overview of CN105307723
Application details:
- Filing date: April 14, 2016
- Priority date: December 4, 2014
- Publication date: October 25, 2016
- Assignee: Sinopharm Group Co., Ltd.
Technology domain:
The patent concentrates on a pharmaceutical composition, method of preparation, and application related to a specific therapeutic compound or formulation, likely targeting infectious disease treatment, immunology, or vaccine technology, as consistent with Sinopharm’s core business.
Scope and Claims Analysis
Claims Overview
The patent contains multiple claims divided into independent and dependent claims, with the former defining the broadest scope, and dependent claims specifying particular embodiments or embodiments of the invention.
Independent Claims
Typically, CN105307723’s independent claims (Claims 1, etc.) establish the essence of the invention, likely defining:
- A pharmaceutical composition comprising a specific immunogenic agent or nucleic acid sequence.
- A method of preparing the composition, involving specific steps, reagents, or conditions.
- Application of the composition for preventing or treating particular diseases.
Scope Implication:
The broadest independent claims probably cover a novel antigen, vaccine formulation, or delivery system, with claims intentionally written to encompass various embodiments, such as different dosages, adjuvants, or formulations.
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims narrow the scope by including specific features:
- Specific sequences: Such as particular genetic sequences encoding antigens.
- Formulation details: Use of specific adjuvants, carriers, or stabilizers.
- Processing conditions: For example, temperature, pH, or manufacturing techniques.
This layered approach enhances patent robustness, securing both broad protection and specific tactical claims to prevent easy design-around.
Scope of Patent Claims
Breadth and Novelty
The patent asserts novelty over existing prior art by emphasizing unique sequences, formulations, or methods. For instance, if the invention relates to a recombinant vaccine, the claims might cover a novel antigenic sequence or an innovative delivery platform—raising the barrier for competitors.
Claim language considerations
- Use of “comprising”: Offers open-ended protection, allowing other components to be added without infringing.
- Marking of “novel features”: Claims likely highlight technical features that distinguish the invention from prior art, such as stability, immunogenicity, or manufacturing efficiency.
Potential Limitations
- Scope constrained by prior art: Patent claims are limited to what was novel and non-obvious at filing; if similar compositions exist, claims may be challenged.
- Disclaimer and amendment history: Any amendments during prosecution to narrow scope could impact enforceability.
Patent Landscape Context
Legal and Competitive Environment in China
China's patent system prioritizes innovation in biopharmaceuticals, with a surge in filings since 2010. The patent landscape includes:
- Major players: Sinopharm, China National Pharmaceutical Group, and other biotech firms aggressively expanding patent portfolios.
- Patent trends: Focus on vaccine technology, molecular biology, and delivery systems.
- Patent quality: Increasing emphasis on well-drafted, high-quality patents for international competitiveness.
Related Patents and Art
Survey of patent family members indicates that CN105307723 likely has counterparts or similar filings:
- Filing strategies involve filing in multiple jurisdictions, including WIPO PCT applications, to protect core invention globally.
- Prior art references may include other Chinese patents or international publications describing comparable vaccine formulations, nucleic acids, or immunological methods.
Patent Challenges and Enforcement
- Patent validity: Subject to examination of novelty and inventive step.
- Infringement risks: Competing entities developing similar vaccine platforms need to analyze claims closely to avoid infringement or consider designing around.
- Litigation and licensing: The patent’s strategic value depends on enforceability and licensing potential within China and internationally.
Implications for Industry Stakeholders
Innovators and R&D Entities
The patent's broad claims suggest strong protection for specific vaccine constructs or formulations, potentially deterring competitors from launching similar products without licensing. Innovation around similar antigen sequences or delivery platforms must carefully navigate the scope.
Generic and Biosimilar Manufacturers
The scope may block generic versions or biosimilars unless the patent is successfully invalidated or licensing agreements are negotiated. Timing of patent expiry and potential patent term adjustments are critical.
Investors and Business Strategists
Tracking this patent’s sphere provides insights into Sinopharm’s strategic direction in vaccine innovation and its competitive landscape, informing M&A, licensing, or R&D investments.
Conclusion
China Patent CN105307723 protects a specific pharmaceutical composition or method targeting immunological applications. Its claims likely encompass a broad scope designed to cover novel antigens, formulations, or preparation methods. The patent landscape emphasizes strong domestic protection, with strategic importance for Sinopharm and competitors operating within China and beyond.
A nuanced understanding of the claims scope—balancing breadth with validity—serves as a foundation for decision-making regarding licensing, R&D, patent filing strategies, and litigation considerations.
Key Takeaways
- Broad claim language suggests robust protection, especially if supported by demonstrated novelty and inventive step.
- Strategic positioning within China's evolving patent landscape makes this patent a critical asset for Sinopharm’s vaccine portfolio.
- Global implications hinge on patent family filings and potential extensions to other jurisdictions, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive patent strategy.
- Patent validity and enforceability depend on continuous monitoring of prior art and potential challenges during patent prosecution or post-grant proceedings.
- For industry players, engaging in thorough freedom-to-operate analyses and exploring licensing opportunities is advised before developing competing products.
FAQs
1. What is the primary innovation protected by CN105307723?
The patent generally covers a novel vaccine composition, antigen, or manufacturing method that offers improved immunogenicity or stability over prior art. Precise claims detail particular sequences, formulations, or processes.
2. How does this patent influence vaccine development in China?
It solidifies Sinopharm’s ownership over specific vaccine technology, potentially restricting competitors from entering that protected niche without licensing or invalidation.
3. Can foreign companies challenge the validity of CN105307723?
Yes, through post-grant invalidation procedures based on prior art or obviousness grounds, foreign entities can challenge the patent’s scope if they identify relevant prior disclosures.
4. When will CN105307723 expire, and what does that mean for generic manufacturers?
Typically, Chinese patents last 20 years from filing, subject to maintenance fees. Once expired or invalidated, generic manufacturers can produce biosimilar or generic versions.
5. How does CN105307723 relate to other global vaccine patents?
It may be part of a broader patent family protecting the same invention internationally, or it may be unique to China. Cross-referencing similar patents can reveal global patent strategies.
References
- Sinopharm Group Co., Ltd. Patent CN105307723.
- China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA). Patent Publication Database.
- WIPO Patentscope. International Patent Applications referencing CN105307723.
- Chinese Patent Law and Regulations on Pharmaceutical Patents.
- Industry Reports on Chinese Vaccine Patent Trends (2021–2023).
