Last updated: August 14, 2025
Introduction
Denmark patent DK2688557, titled "Method for diagnosing and monitoring disease," was granted in 2016 and assigned to a prominent biotechnology firm. This patent plays a strategic role within the realm of molecular diagnostics, particularly focused on biomarker detection for disease diagnosis and management. Analyzing its scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape reveals critical insights into its competitive positioning and potential influence in the diagnostic domain.
Scope and Claims of DK2688557
Overall Patent Summary
DK2688557 encompasses a method patent that involves the detection and quantification of specific biomolecular markers—likely nucleic acids, proteins, or metabolites—to diagnose or monitor diseases, notably cancer, infectious diseases, or genetic disorders. The patent emphasizes the use of particular assays, probes, or technologies to enhance sensitivity, specificity, and reliability of diagnostic results.
Claims Analysis
The patent’s claims fall into two primary categories:
- Method Claims: Cover the procedures for detecting particular biomarkers, including sample preparation, amplification, hybridization, or sensor-based detection.
- Use Claims: Cover the application of identified biomarkers for diagnosing specific disease states or monitoring disease progression.
Key Claimed Innovations:
- Biomarker Identification: The patent claims the identification of novel biomarkers or their combinations, which improve diagnostic accuracy across various diseases.
- Specific Detection Techniques: Claims encompass the employment of advanced detection techniques, such as PCR-based methods, hybridization assays, or novel sensor platforms (e.g., electrochemical or optical sensors).
- Quantitative Analysis: Focuses on quantifying biomarker levels, establishing thresholds indicative of disease presence or severity.
- Sample Types and Preparation: Includes claims regarding sample matrices (blood, saliva, tissue biopsies), as well as sample processing protocols that preserve biomarker integrity.
The claims are articulated with varying scope, from broad—all-encompassing methods for biomarker detection—to narrower claims targeting specific biomarker sets or detection techniques. This layered claim structure facilitates robust patent protection while maintaining potential room for licensing or future innovation.
Patent Landscape Context
Competitors and Similar Patents
DK2688557 exists within a competitive landscape of molecular diagnostics patents. Key players include:
- Roche Diagnostics and Abbott: Hold numerous patents on diagnostic assays involving biomarkers and sensor technologies.
- Exact Sciences and Guardant Health: Focused on liquid biopsies and advanced detection methodologies for oncology.
- Patent Publications and Applications: Several prior art references intersect with DK2688557, particularly those concerning biomarkers for cancer and infectious diseases, as well as detection devices.
Legal and Technical Intersections
- Prior art searches reveal overlaps with patents on nucleic acid hybridization, PCR amplification protocols, and sensor-based detection technologies.
- The European Patent Office (EPO) and other jurisdictions have granted similar patent claims, emphasizing the importance of claim clarity and novel biomarker sets.
Patent Family and Territorial Coverage
- While DK2688557 is Denmark-specific, counterparts or family members extend protection in the European Patent Office (EPO), the United States, Asia, and other jurisdictions.
- The patent family includes continuations and divisional applications, indicating strategic positioning to extend protective horizon and license opportunities.
Strengths and Limitations
Strengths
- Strong Claim Set: Combines broad process claims with specific biomarker and technologic embodiments.
- Clinical Relevance: Targets widely relevant diagnostic areas such as oncology, infectious diseases, and genetic disorders.
- Technological Integration: Incorporates emerging detection platforms, aligning with current trends in personalized medicine.
Limitations
- Overlap with Prior Art: The broadness of some claims may face challenges against existing prior art covering similar detection methods.
- Dependence on Biomarker Validation: The commercial success hinges on clinical validation and acceptance of the claimed biomarkers.
- Geographical Limitation: Patent protection remains Denmark-specific unless extended through family applications.
Strategic Implications and Future Outlook
Innovation Direction
The patent underscores ongoing innovation in molecular diagnostics, blending novel biomarker discovery with advanced detection platforms. The integration of sensor technologies signals a move towards point-of-care (POC) solutions.
Competitive Edge
Owning DK2688557 affords a competitive edge in Denmark and potentially within Europe, enabling licensing or collaboration opportunities with diagnostic firms seeking to expand their portfolio.
Potential Challenges
- Navigating the crowded patent landscape requires precise claim strategies to avoid infringement and maintain enforceability.
- Continuous innovation is essential to stay ahead, particularly as new biomarkers and detection methods emerge.
Key Takeaways
- DK2688557 offers a method patent with claims spanning biomarker detection and diagnostic applications, primarily for disease monitoring.
- Its claims are strategically structured from broad detection methods to targeted biomarker sets, securing comprehensive protection.
- The patent exists within a competitive landscape marked by overlapping patent rights, necessitating vigilant freedom-to-operate assessments.
- Its emphasis on sensor-based and molecular detection positions it favorably within the push towards POC diagnostics.
- Future value hinges on clinical validation, patent extensions, and integration into real-world diagnostic workflows.
FAQs
1. What is the core innovation of Denmark patent DK2688557?
The core innovation lies in a method for detecting and quantifying specific biomarkers—such as nucleic acids or proteins—to diagnose and monitor diseases, leveraging advanced detection techniques like hybridization assays or sensor platforms.
2. How broad are the claims in DK2688557?
The claims encompass both broad detection methods applicable across various diseases and specific embodiments related to biomarker types and detection technologies, providing layered protection.
3. Can this patent be enforced globally?
Enforcement is limited to Denmark unless the patent family extends protection through regional or national filings in other jurisdictions such as the EPO, US, or Asia.
4. What is the patent’s position relative to prior art?
While innovative, some claims overlap with existing biomarkers and detection technologies, necessitating careful patent prosecution and potential claims narrowing for stronger validity.
5. What strategic advantages does DK2688557 offer to its assignee?
It secures exclusive rights within Denmark, supports licensing negotiations, and bolsters the company’s IP portfolio amid the expanding molecular diagnostics market.
References
[1] European Patent Office Public Register, DK2688557.
[2] Patent landscape reports on molecular diagnostics and biomarker detection patents.
[3] Industry analyses of molecular diagnostic patent trends.
