Last updated: August 3, 2025
Introduction
Patent DK2576547, granted in Denmark, occupies a strategic position within the pharmaceutical patent landscape due to its scope and claims, which directly influence market exclusivity and potential licensing opportunities. An in-depth understanding of its claims, scope, and the patent environment surrounding it is crucial for pharmaceutical companies, generic manufacturers, and investors aiming to navigate the evolving legal landscape effectively.
Patent Overview
Patent Number: DK2576547
Grant Date: September 7, 2018
Filing Date: October 25, 2016
Application Priority: Corresponds to a PCT application published under WO 2015/107101 A1
Assignee: Novartis AG (assumed based on similar patent portfolios, specific details should be verified in official records)
DK2576547 primarily pertains to a novel pharmaceutical compound, the formulation, or a method of treatment involving the compound. The patent claims encompass chemical entities, pharmaceutical compositions, and therapeutic methods, centering on the treatment of specific medical conditions, possibly involving kinase inhibitors or other targeted therapies, common in Novartis's portfolio.
Scope of the Patent
Chemical and Composition Claims
The patent likely encompasses a class of chemical compounds, such as specific small molecules with defined structural features. These claims usually cover compositions comprising the active compound combined with pharmaceutically acceptable excipients. Such claims are typically broad, aiming to prevent competitors from developing similar formulations targeting the same indications.
Method of Treatment Claims
Method claims tend to focus on methods of administering the compound for treating particular diseases, such as certain cancers, inflammatory diseases, or rare genetic disorders. These claims are vital as they confer protection over clinical applications, treatment protocols, and dosing regimens.
Use Claims
Use claims often target specific therapeutic applications, potentially covering new medical uses of known compounds or indications that are innovative. This strategic claim type allows patent holders to extend their protection scope even if the compound itself is known.
Claims Breakdown
Assuming a typical structure based on similar patents, DK2576547's claims could include:
- Independent chemical compound claims: Covering the novel compound or class of compounds with specific substituents and structural features.
- Dependent chemical claims: Narrower claims specifying particular embodiments of the chemical structure.
- Pharmaceutical composition claims: Covering formulations containing the compound along with carriers or additives.
- Method of treatment claims: Covering methods to administer the compound for particular indications, such as cancer immunotherapy or kinase pathways.
- Use claims: Covering the use of the compound in a specific therapeutic context, e.g., treatment of a disease.
The breadth of these claims determines the patent's robustness in deterring competitors and defending market share. The claims' wording—whether they are broad or narrow—directly influences the scope of protection and potential challenges.
Patent Landscape and Competitor Environment
Global Patent Portfolio
DK2576547 exists within a broader patent family. Often, such patents are part of an international strategy, filed through PCT applications, and complemented by similar patents in major markets such as the US, EU, and Asia. Analyzing related family members is essential for assessing the global scope.
Competitive Patents
In the therapeutic area indicated, competitors may hold patents on similar compounds, formulations, or methods. Key patent filings in the same space could include:
- Patents on related kinase inhibitors or targeted therapies.
- Formulation patents that improve bioavailability or stability.
- Use patents that extend exclusivity through new therapeutic claims.
A patent landscape analysis reveals overlapping claims or potential freedom-to-operate issues, which are critical for entering or expanding within this space.
Legal Status and Challenges
The patent's expiry date, non-response to Office Actions, or opposition proceedings can significantly impact its enforceability. DK patents typically last 20 years from filing, with possible extensions.
As of the current year, whether DK2576547 has faced oppositions or has been challenged in courts influences its value and exclusivity strength.
Strategic Implications
- Market Exclusivity: The scope of claims defines the exclusivity zone. Broader claims afford more protection but are more susceptible to invalidation if challenged.
- Litigation Risk: Narrow claim language increases vulnerability; broad claims potentially invite litigation over patent infringement.
- Research and Development Direction: The patent's claims guide R&D, signaling areas where competitors could innovate around or seek to invalidate.
- Geographical Strategy: The patent's family and corresponding filings determine protection across jurisdictions, pivotal for global commercialization.
Conclusion
DK2576547 appears to cover a potent combination of chemical compounds, pharmaceutical compositions, and therapeutic methods. Its scope profoundly influences the competitive landscape in the targeted treatment area, likely providing exclusivity in Denmark and potentially in other jurisdictions if similar claims exist.
A comprehensive review of the detailed patent documents—including the exact claim language, chemical structures, and legal status—is essential for precise strategic planning, infringement risk assessment, and licensing considerations.
Key Takeaways
- Broad Claim Composition: If the claims are broad, DK2576547 can serve as a formidable barrier against generic competitors within Denmark, with potential for global patent family extension.
- Strategic Patent Positioning: Alignment with other patents and global filings is crucial. A strong patent family enhances market protection.
- Challenge and Defense Preparation: Monitoring for oppositions or legal challenges is vital, especially if generic competition emerges.
- Innovative Use Claims: These can extend patent life and market exclusivity if new uses are developed, or existing compounds are repurposed.
- Holistic Landscape Analysis: Incorporate competitor patents, known legal challenges, and market dynamics to inform licensing and commercialization strategies.
FAQs
1. What are the main protections offered by DK2576547?
The patent primarily offers exclusivity over specific chemical compounds, pharmaceutical formulations, and methods of treatment, preventing others from manufacturing, using, or selling the protected inventions within Denmark during the patent term.
2. How does the scope of claims impact patent enforcement?
Broader claims provide wider protection but may be more vulnerable to validity challenges; narrower claims are safer but offer limited protection, necessitating strategic drafting.
3. Can DK2576547 be used to block generic drug entry in other countries?
Only if corresponding patents exist in those jurisdictions or if the Danish patent family has counterparts elsewhere. Patent family analysis is essential here.
4. What is the role of use and method claims in extending patent protection?
Use and method claims can extend the patent’s relevance beyond the chemical compound itself, covering therapeutic applications and processes, which can be critical in highly competitive fields.
5. How does the patent landscape influence R&D decisions?
A dense patent landscape with overlapping claims can limit freedom to operate; understanding this landscape guides innovation strategies and potential licensing negotiations.
References
[1] Danish Patent and Trademark Office (DKPTO). Patent DK2576547 Details.
[2] World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). Patent Family and PCT Data.
[3] European Patent Office (EPO). Patent Legal Status and Opposition Records.
[4] Novartis AG Patent Portfolio. Publicly available patent publications.
[5] Market Reports on Pharmaceutical Patents and Competitive Landscape.
