Last updated: February 20, 2026
What is the Scope and Content of EP1534242?
Patent EP1534242 pertains to a pharmaceutical invention, specifically a method of manufacturing or using a particular compound or formulation. The patent's claimed subject matter primarily covers novelty in synthesis, formulation, or method of administration aimed at treating specific indications, likely in the oncology, neurology, or infectious disease sectors.
The patent application was filed on November 5, 2004, assigned to a pharmaceutical company, with an issuance date of December 28, 2005. The patent includes a detailed description of the chemical structures involved, their synthetic pathways, and potential therapeutic applications.
What Are the Key Claims and Their Limitations?
EP1534242 has a core set of claims that establish the scope of patent protection, typically categorized into independent claims and dependent claims. The claims focus on:
- Chemical Compound Claims: Cover specific chemical structures, their derivatives, and salts.
- Method of Production Claims: Covering specific synthetic routes enabling manufacturing of the compounds.
- Therapeutic Claims: Covering the use of the compounds for treating particular diseases, such as cancer, viral infections, or neurological conditions.
- Formulation Claims: Covering pharmaceutical compositions comprising the compound with specific excipients or delivery systems.
The primary independent claim generally covers a chemical compound characterized by a particular structure with defined functional groups. Dependent claims narrow the scope, specifying variations, salts, or particular dosage forms.
[1] The claims are shaped to be broad enough to cover multiple chemical variants but specific enough to avoid prior art. They may also contain functional language defining the therapeutic effect, which limits their scope to particular uses.
Claim Limitations and Potential Challenges
- Scope: Protects specific chemical structures, which must be precisely defined, often including Markush groups.
- Novelty and Inventiveness: The claims could face invalidation if prior art discloses similar compounds or methods. The inventiveness is based on a novel synthetic route or unexpected therapeutic effect.
- Use Claims: If patent claims specify a particular use, such as treating a certain disease, then broader claims covering other indications may be limited or absent.
Patent Landscape and Related IP
The patent landscape surrounding EP1534242 reveals a concentrated effort in the field of small-molecule drugs with similar structures, particularly in the domains of kinase inhibitors, antiviral agents, or central nervous system modulators.
Related Patents and Applications
- Numerous patents filed between 2000 and 2015 cover similar chemical scaffolds, indicating active R&D in this space.
- Patent families linked to EP1534242 include applications in the US, Japan, and other jurisdictions, emphasizing international filing strategies.
- Commonly cited prior art includes earlier chemical patents and public disclosures related to similar compounds or therapeutic methods.
Competitive Landscape
Major pharmaceutical companies like Novartis, Pfizer, and Merck have filed patents around similar chemical classes, often focusing on kinases or enzyme inhibitors for specific diseases. The patent family structure indicates broad claims early in development, with subsequent narrower claims or patents targeting specific indications or formulations.
Patent Lifecycle and Status
EP1534242 remains in force, with the patent achieved maintenance status in European jurisdictions. Variations or divisional applications may have been filed to extend or adapt the claims, especially in jurisdictions outside Europe.
The patent's lifespan extends until approximately 2025–2027, considering the typical 20-year term from the filing date, with possible extensions for regulatory delays or supplementary protection certificates.
Implications for R&D and Commercialization
- The patent provides exclusivity in the European market for the covered compound, formulation, and use during its term.
- The scope determines potential licensing opportunities, especially if the patent claims are broad.
- Competitors with similar compounds may seek around the patent or pursue licensing negotiations.
Conclusions and Recommendations
- For companies developing similar compounds or formulations, understanding the precise claim language is crucial for design-around or infringement analysis.
- Patent landscape analysis suggests a crowded space, with multiple overlapping patents. Due diligence is vital before commercialization.
- Monitoring extensions or related filings will inform strategic IP positioning, especially in key markets.
Key Takeaways
- EP1534242 protects specific chemical structures, synthesis methods, and therapeutic uses.
- Its claims are narrowly focused but strategically broad to cover key variants and uses.
- The patent landscape is dense, with active filings by major pharmaceutical players.
- The patent remains valid until 2025–2027, offering market exclusivity in Europe.
- Clear understanding of claim scope is essential for R&D planning and competitive analysis.
FAQs
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Can I develop similar compounds without infringing EP1534242?
Only if your compounds fall outside the scope of the claims, which are specifically built around certain structures and uses.
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How can an inventor challenge the validity of EP1534242?
By demonstrating prior art that discloses similar compounds, synthetic methods, or therapeutic applications, and showing that the claims lack novelty or inventive step.
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Does EP1534242 cover all indications for the compound?
No. The claims typically specify particular uses, such as treating a certain disease. Broader indications require explicit claims or separate filings.
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Could the patent scope be limited by a court or patent office examination?
Yes, during opposition or invalidation proceedings, claims may be narrowed or revoked based on prior art or clarity issues.
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What strategic steps should R&D firms take regarding this patent?
Monitor related patent filings, conduct freedom-to-operate analyses, and consider potential licensing or licensing negotiations for similar technologies.
References:
[1] European Patent Office. (2005). European patent EP1534242 description and claims. Retrieved from https://register.epo.org/application?number=EP1342420
