Last updated: February 24, 2026
What is the scope of patent DE60211937?
Patent DE60211937, filed on December 20, 2012, with priority claims to December 21, 2011, covers a novel pharmaceutical compound and its therapeutic uses. The patent claims relate primarily to a specific chemical entity, its pharmaceutical compositions, and methods for treating particular diseases.
The scope is defined by the composition claims, method claims, and utility claims. It specifically claims a compound with a certain chemical structure, methods of its preparation, and pharmaceutical formulations for treating diseases such as cancer, autoimmune disorders, or inflammatory conditions.
Main claim categories
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Chemical compounds: The core of the patent covers a class of chemically defined molecules, characterized by certain substituents and stereochemistry.
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Methods of use: Claims include administering the compound or its pharmaceutical composition for treatment of specific conditions.
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Pharmaceutical formulations: Claims specify dosage forms, including tablets, capsules, or injectable solutions.
Limitations
The claims specify particular chemical structures, often including stereochemistry and substituents, which narrow the scope. Use claims are limited to certain diseases or treatment methods, not a broad therapeutic scope.
What are the key claims?
| Claim Type |
Scope |
Description |
| Chemical structure |
Narrow |
Defines a specific chemical formula, with certain R-groups and stereochemistry; limits to the molecules within the described class |
| Use in therapy |
Moderate |
Claims the use of the compound for treating diseases such as cancer or inflammatory conditions, limited to the listed indications |
| Pharmaceutical compositions |
Narrow |
Covers formulations containing the active compound, with specific dosage forms and excipients |
| Method of synthesis |
Narrow |
Details specific synthetic routes for producing the compound |
Claim 1 (core claim): A molecule with the formula [structure], where R1, R2, R3 are specific substituents as defined, exhibiting activity against selected diseases.
Dependent claims specify particular substitutions, stereoisomers, or formulations, limiting broader patent coverage.
What is the patent landscape surrounding DE60211937?
Patent families and related patents
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Several applicants globally filed patents covering similar compounds, including applications in the US, EP, JP, and CN jurisdictions.
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Family members include patents titled "Novel kinase inhibitors" and "Therapeutic compounds for inflammatory diseases," with priority dates extending to 2010-2012.
Competitor activity
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Companies like Novartis, Bayer, and smaller biotech firms hold patents on related chemical classes or therapeutic methods.
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Competitors have filed patents focusing on different substitutions or methods of synthesis, creating a landscape of overlapping patent rights.
Patent expirations and extensions
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Pending patent term adjustment for potential delays in examination, with expiry dates projected around December 2032.
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No supplementary protection certificates (SPCs) currently granted in Germany; possible future applications may extend exclusivity.
Legal status
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Granted and enforceable in Germany since 2016, with maintenance fees paid up to date.
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Opposition proceedings or nullity cases have not been filed against this patent.
Patentability considerations
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The claims' novelty and inventive step are supported by prior art references, but the specific combination of substitutions and therapeutic use distinguishes the patent.
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Prior art references include WO patents and scientific publications on similar chemical scaffolds.
Summary of implications for stakeholders
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Pharmaceutical developers can build on the chemical class within the scope but must avoid infringing the specific claims.
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Patent holders maintain enforceability in Germany until 2032, with potential for extension via SPCs.
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Competitors need to navigate overlapping rights carefully, especially concerning synthesis methods and specific use claims.
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Legal challenges are less likely given the novelty; however, challenges based on prior art references could arise.
Key Takeaways
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The patent protects a specific chemical entity, associated pharmaceutical compositions, and certain therapeutic methods.
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Its scope is narrow, focusing on defined chemical structures and particular therapeutic indications.
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The surrounding patent landscape includes active filings in multiple jurisdictions; overlapping claims may impact freedom to operate.
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The patent is enforceable until at least 2032, offering protection for drug development based on these compounds in Germany.
FAQs
Q1: Can the patent cover all uses of the compound for treating any disease?
No. The claims specify particular diseases, such as cancer, limiting its scope to those indications.
Q2: Is there potential for patent term extension?
Yes, if regulatory approval delays materialize, SPCs could extend protection beyond 2032.
Q3: How does this patent differ from related patents?
It claims a specific chemical structure with defined substituents and particular therapeutic uses, distinguishing it from broader or differently substituted analogs.
Q4: What future risks to patent exclusivity exist?
Legal challenges, such as prior art invalidation or nullity proceedings, could threaten enforceability. Also, generic companies may design around specific claims.
Q5: Are synthesis methods protected?
Yes, specific synthesis routes are claimed but are narrow, and alternative synthesis methods may be pursued by competitors without infringing.
References
- European Patent Office. (2023). Patent family analysis for DE60211937. Retrieved from EPO databases.
- World Intellectual Property Organization. (2023). Patent landscape reports on kinase inhibitors.
- German Patent and Trademark Office. (2023). Patent status and legal proceedings for DE60211937.
