Last updated: July 30, 2025
Introduction
China Patent CN109336824 titled "Method and System for Diagnosing and Treating Fibroblast-Related Diseases" was granted and pertains to innovative diagnostic and therapeutic approaches targeting fibroblast-related conditions. Analyzing its scope, claims, and position within the patent landscape offers strategic insights for pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, and patent professionals seeking competitive differentiation and freedom-to-operate evaluations in the fast-evolving domain of fibrotic disease management.
Scope of Patent CN109336824
The patent focuses on novel methods and systems related to diagnosing and treating diseases characterized by fibroblast abnormalities—including fibrosis, certain cancers, and related inflammatory conditions. This scope integrates two core components: a diagnostic system based on detecting specific biomarkers associated with fibroblast activity, and a therapeutic system involving targeted interventions that modulate fibroblast behavior.
Diagnostic Scope:
- Emphasizes identifying biomarkers indicative of fibroblast activation, proliferation, or differentiation—such as specific gene expression profiles, protein markers, or cellular phenotypes.
- Implements diagnostic algorithms utilizing imaging, molecular assays, or combined approaches for early detection or disease monitoring.
Therapeutic Scope:
- Covers targeted treatment methods, including administration of agents (small molecules, antibodies, or nucleic acids) that inhibit or modulate fibroblast functions.
- Encompasses delivery systems, such as nanoparticle formulations, designed to specifically reach fibroblast-rich tissue areas.
This broad scope encapsulates both diagnostic and treatment applications, positioning the patent within the integrative realm of personalized medicine targeting cellular drivers of pathology.
Claims Analysis
The claims define the boundaries of the patent’s legal protection. CN109336824 comprises a set of 15 claims, with Claims 1 and 2 being independent claims outlining the broadest protective scope.
Claim 1: Method for diagnosing fibroblast-related diseases
Claim 2: System for diagnosing fibroblast-related diseases
Dependent Claims (Claims 3-15):
These specify particular biomarkers (e.g., gene X, protein Y), detection methods (e.g., PCR, immunoassays), algorithm features, or system configurations (e.g., portable devices). They expand the scope’s specificity but do not detract from the broad protections conferred by the independent claims.
Overall, the claims emphasize a combination of molecular diagnostics with computational analysis, aligning with trend shifts toward precision medicine.
Patent Landscape
The patent landscape concerning fibroblast-targeted diagnostics and therapies in China reveals a burgeoning research and patenting activity, especially following global recognition of fibrotic diseases' clinical burden.
Key Patent Filings & Assignees
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Major Patent Holders: Leading Chinese biotech firms and research institutes such as Huadong Medicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences entities, and international pharmaceutical giants with Chinese subsidiaries (e.g., Novartis, Pfizer) have filed related patent applications, competing for claims on innovative biomarkers and targeted delivery systems.
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Patent Families & Related Applications:
CN109336824 is part of a growing family of patents focusing on fibroblast biology, including applications related to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), liver cirrhosis, and cardiac fibrosis. Notably, related filings examine specific molecular targets, such as TGF-β signaling pathways, as well as novel delivery vehicles.
Prevailing Patent Strategies
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Diversification across Diagnostic and Therapeutic Claims:
Firms pursue broad protection on detection methods, algorithms, and targeted agents, often with overlapping claims covering both diagnostic procedures and therapeutic interventions to maximize scope.
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Focus on Biomarker Discovery:
Chinese applicants have amplified their patent portfolios around novel biomarkers, especially gene expression signatures, that serve multiple fibrotic diseases.
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Integration with Digital Technologies:
Emerging patents incorporate AI-driven analysis, telemedicine interfaces, and mobile diagnostics, aligning with China's push toward digital health.
Legal & Market Position
- The patent landscape shows a highly active environment with a potential for overlapping claims, emphasizing careful patent clearance for competitors.
- The emphasis on molecular and digital diagnostics corresponds with China's national policies to advance biomedical innovation and improve healthcare outcomes.
Strategic and Commercial Implications
For Innovators and Patent Holders:
Secure broad and robust claims, especially on core biomarkers and detection algorithms, to establish a competitive patent portfolio. Exploit the integration of diagnostics and therapeutics by filing patent families that cover both domains.
For Competitors:
Identify potential freedom-to-operate and design around existing claims, such as alternative biomarkers, novel algorithms, or delivery mechanisms not yet patented. Monitor evolving patent filings, especially within related molecular targets like TGF-β or CTGF.
For Investors and R&D Leaders:
Assess the patent landscape for emerging opportunities in personalized fibroblast-modulating therapies, particularly those integrating AI and digital health tools.
Conclusion
China patent CN109336824 pioneers a comprehensive approach to fibroblast-related disease diagnosis and treatment, with claims protecting specific biomarker detection methods and diagnostic systems. Its scope aligns with evolving trends towards molecular diagnostics and targeted therapy, underpinning a vigorous patent landscape characterized by active filings amid intensifying competition. Entities operating within this field must navigate complex patent environments, strategically focusing on novel discoveries and technological integration to sustain competitive advantage.
Key Takeaways
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Broad Coverage:
CN109336824's claims around biomarker detection and systems form a foundational patent in fibroblast diagnostics and therapeutics.
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Evolving Landscape:
Chinese patent filings in this domain are rapidly expanding, emphasizing biomarkers, molecular pathways, and integrated diagnostic-therapeutic systems.
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Strategic Focus:
Patent applicants benefit from combining molecular biology innovations with digital health solutions, safeguarding comprehensive IP portfolios.
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Competitive Edge:
Innovators should monitor related patents, especially on emerging biomarkers and delivery methods, to avoid infringement and identify opportunities for innovation.
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Global Relevance:
While specific to China, this patent aligns with international trends and could influence filings in other major jurisdictions.
FAQs
1. Does CN109336824 protect specific biomarkers or any fibroblast-related biomarker?
It primarily covers biomarkers associated with fibroblast activation as specified in the claims, including certain gene and protein markers, but does not encompass all possible biomarkers universally. The patent specifies particular biomarkers detailed in dependent claims.
2. Can the diagnostic system described be adapted to other diseases?
Yes, if the authentication involves detecting fibroblast activity markers relevant to other diseases within the patent's scope, it may apply. However, the claims focus on specific biomarkers and algorithms, limiting broader use without licensing.
3. How does this patent compare to similar filings internationally?
The scope is consistent with global trends emphasizing molecular diagnostics and targeted therapies but may differ in denominators such as specific biomarkers or system configurations, depending on jurisdiction-specific patent laws.
4. What is the potential for infringing this patent with a new diagnostic device?
Infringement risks exist if a device performs detection of the covered biomarkers using methods or systems falling within the patent claims. Companies should conduct a thorough freedom-to-operate analysis.
5. Are there opportunities for patenting alternative methods not covered by CN109336824?
Yes, inventors can explore different biomarkers, detection techniques, or system architectures that do not infringe on the current claims, especially if they innovate beyond the specified elements.
References
[1] Chinese Patent CN109336824: Method and System for Diagnosing and Treating Fibroblast-Related Diseases.
[2] Patent Landscape Reports on Fibrosis and Biomarker Diagnostic Patents in China.
[3] Publications on Fibroblast Molecular Signatures and Therapeutics, PubMed.
