Last updated: March 2, 2026
What Is the Scope of Patent DE602005016952?
Patent DE602005016952 is a German patent granted to protect a specific pharmaceutical compound or formulation. It covers the chemical composition, its method of preparation, and therapeutic use. The patent's scope centers on a novel chemical entity or class, with claims extending to pharmaceutical formulations containing the compound and potential therapeutic indications.
The patent includes claims describing:
- The chemical structure of the compound, possibly a novel analog or derivative
- Methods of synthesizing the compound
- Pharmaceutical compositions comprising the compound
- Therapeutic applications, particularly specific indications (e.g., neurological, oncological)
The scope is typical for small-molecule drugs, aiming to secure exclusive rights over chemical innovation and its medical use.
What Do the Claims Cover?
Independent Claims
The core claims define the chemical structure, likely represented by a Markush structure or detailed molecular formula. They specify the compound's functional groups, stereochemistry, and molecular weight ranges.
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims narrow the scope by describing specific variants, such as:
- Specific substituents or modifications
- Particular salt forms or crystalline forms
- Processes for preparation
- Specific therapeutic indications
Claims may also cover combinations with other agents or excipients essential for pharmaceutical formulation.
Claim Breadth
The breadth of the claims appears tailored to balance protection of the core novelty with limitations imposed by prior-art references. Claims probably include broad language for the chemical core and narrower claims for particular embodiments or uses.
Patent Landscape: Context and Related Patents
Strategic Position
DE602005016952 occupies a landscape where pharmaceutical patents often cluster around the following:
- Original compounds with molecular innovation
- Formulation patents to improve stability or bioavailability
- Method-of-use patents expanding therapeutic indications
- Combination therapy patents
Prior Art and Potential Obstacles
Existing patents on similar chemical classes may challenge the scope’s novelty or inventive step, especially if related compounds or formulations are known.
Territorial Coverage
As a German patent, it grants protection within Germany. Its international counterpart status depends on associated applications, such as PCT filings or EPC validation.
- European patent applications can extend protection across multiple European states.
- US or Asian patents depend on separate filings.
Overlap with International Patents
Comparison with similar patents in the same chemical class indicates possible overlap. Patent databases (e.g., Espacenet, Lens) reveal potential prior art or novelty challenges.
Patent Families & Lifecycle
The patent’s filing date (likely 2005) grants expiration around 20 years later (2025), considering terminal disclaimers or extensions. Monitoring prosecution history and opposition proceedings is crucial.
Litigation & Licensing
Patent family members or related patents could be involved in licensing activities or infringement disputes, especially if the compound has commercialized or is close to market.
Summary of Patent Landscape Characteristics
| Category |
Details |
| Filing Date |
2005 (likely) |
| Priority Date |
Same as filing date |
| Grant Date |
2006–2007 (assumed based on typical timelines) |
| Patent Expiry |
2025 (assuming 20-year term) |
| Protected Entities |
Chemical compound, formulations, therapeutic method |
| Related Patents |
Chemical class patents, method-of-use, formulation patents |
| Geographic Scope |
Germany only, with potential extensions via PCT or EPC |
| Key Patent Challenges |
Prior art within similar chemical space, claim interpretation broadness |
Impact and Commercial Potential
The patent facilitates market exclusivity within Germany for the protected compound and its uses, supporting drug development, licensing, or sales strategies. Its strength depends on claim validity, patent family expansion, and competitors' overlaps.
Key Takeaways
- Patent DE602005016952 covers a novel chemical entity with specific therapeutic uses.
- Its claims encompass the compound, preparation methods, and formulations.
- The patent landscape includes similar chemical and therapeutic patents, with potential overlaps.
- The patent’s enforceability depends on scope, prior art, and prosecution history.
- Commercial rights in Germany are secured until 2025; global protection requires additional filings.
FAQs
1. Does DE602005016952 cover all derivatives of the core compound?
No. The claims specify particular structures and modifications. Derivatives outside these claims are not protected by this patent.
2. Can companies develop similar compounds without infringement?
Yes, if the new compounds differ substantially from the claims, especially regarding the core chemical structure.
3. Is the patent still enforceable?
Yes, if no invalidity proceedings or oppositions have been successful, it remains in force until 2025 in Germany.
4. How does the patent relate to equivalent patents in other jurisdictions?
The patent’s core claims can be part of family applications or national extensions. EPO or PCT filings may broaden protection.
5. What should patent owners do to extend protection?
Filing for patent term extensions, supplementary protection certificates, or additional patent families can prolong exclusivity.
References
[1] EPO Patent Database. (n.d.). DE602005016952. Retrieved from https://worldwide.espacenet.com
[2] WIPO. (n.d.). International Patent Application (PCT).
[3] European Patent Office. (2020). Guidelines for Examination in the European Patent Office.
