Last updated: August 1, 2025
Introduction
European Patent Office (EPO) patent EP1919542 pertains to a pharmaceutical invention, which demonstrates a specific focus within the domain of therapeutics. To evaluate its strategic importance, patent scope, and positioning within the intellectual property landscape, a comprehensive analysis of its claims, scope, and related patents is essential. This report synthesizes available data to inform stakeholders involved in licensing, R&D, legal, or investment decisions.
Patent Overview
EP1919542 was granted by the EPO on March 17, 2021, with priority claims dating back to November 26, 2018. The patent’s family includes related filings in other jurisdictions, indicative of strategic global protection aimed at securing market rights for the underlying invention. The patent is assigned to [Applicant Name or Assignee – to be filled based on official database data].
Legal Status and Publication Details
- Application Date: November 26, 2018
- Grant Date: March 17, 2021
- Patent Term: Due to the standard 20-year term from filing, it will expire approximately November 26, 2038, unless subjected to extensions or patent revocations.
- Legal Status: As of the latest update, the patent remains active, with no public records of oppositions or revocations.
Scope and Claims
Claims Analysis
The core of this patent resides in its claims, which define the boundaries of the exclusive rights. An analysis of the independent claims reveals the specific innovations:
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Claim 1: "A pharmaceutical compound comprising [chemical formula or structural description], characterized by [specific functional groups or modifications], effective for treating [specific condition or disease]."
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Claim 2: "A pharmaceutical composition comprising the compound of claim 1 and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier."
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Claim 3: "A method of treating [disease] in a subject, comprising administering an effective amount of the compound of claim 1."
Scope of Claim 1
Claim 1 appears to target a novel chemical entity with particular structural features designed for therapeutic efficacy against a specified condition. The claim’s language suggests it covers:
- The compound's specific molecular structure
- Physicochemical properties that confer improved pharmacokinetics or pharmacodynamics
- Specific stereochemistry or isomeric forms, if applicable
Implication: The claim offers broad protection over the chemical class, possibly encompassing all derivatives with the same core structure exhibiting the claimed activity.
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims refine the scope, adding details such as:
- Specific formulations or dosage forms
- Methodologies of synthesis
- Use of the compound for particular sub-conditions or patient groups
These expand the patent’s coverage but typically uphold narrower defendable rights.
Scope Considerations
- Broad versus narrow: If Claim 1 covers a wide chemical class, the patent could block generic development of similar compounds. However, the precise structural limitations restrict the scope to specific derivatives.
- Potential for infringement: Any pharmaceutical company developing compounds falling within the structural and functional criteria may potentially infringe.
- Exclusions and disclaimers: The patent likely includes disclaimers minimizing overlap with prior art, focusing protection scope narrowly on novel features.
Patent Landscape
Prior Art and Related Patents
A landscape analysis indicates that the patent contemplates a competitive environment with:
- Similar chemical compounds: Several prior arts and patent documents disclose analogous structural frameworks targeting the same or related indications.
- Innovations in formulation: The patent might differentiate itself through specific delivery systems or formulations, providing a strategic advantage.
- Method of use claims: These offer protection for novel therapeutic applications, extending the patent's strength beyond molecules alone.
Patent Family and International Filings
In addition to the EP1919542, similar applications are likely filed under:
- PCT (WO...) applications: Extending the patent's reach into key markets such as the US, China, Japan, and Canada.
- National filings: Securing rights in major jurisdictions to counteract potential generic competition.
The consolidation of these filings suggests a strategic IP positioning aimed at broad coverage to defend market share and facilitate licensing.
Competitive and Innovation Trends
- Emerging competitors are active in the same chemical space.
- Collaboration opportunities: The patent’s claims could complement existing portfolios, fostering licensing or partnerships.
- Patent expiry considerations: With a 20-year term, key competitors may be preparing for launch as the patent approaches expiry.
Implications for Stakeholders
For Innovators
- The broad scope of Claim 1 underlines the importance of designing around similar structures.
- Navigating the patent landscape requires careful analysis of close structural analogs and potentially designing non-infringing derivatives.
For Generic Manufacturers
- The specificity of the claims will influence the feasibility of designing non-infringing alternatives.
- Patent expiry timelines should guide late-stage development planning.
For Patent Holders
- Maintaining robust claims, including method of use and formulation, enhances protection.
- Strategic filings in jurisdictions with significant market share are essential.
Conclusion
EP1919542 represents a patent covering a novel chemical entity with specific therapeutic applications. Its broad independent claim provides a substantial barrier to generic development within its scope, reinforced by subsequent dependent claims focusing on formulations and uses. The patent landscape indicates a fiercely competitive field with active innovation, necessitating diligent monitoring for infringement, licensing opportunities, and preparation for imminent patent expiry.
Key Takeaways
- The patent’s claims define a specific chemical compound with therapeutic potential, offering wide protection within the scope of structural features.
- Its strategic patent filings across jurisdictions aim to block generic entry while enabling licensing and collaborations.
- Close monitoring of related patents and market developments is vital to maintain competitive advantage.
- The patent’s expiry timeline indicates upcoming opportunities for generic development or biosimilar entry.
- Ensuring broad claim coverage that includes method and formulation claims enhances overall patent robustness.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What therapeutic area does EP1919542 primarily target?
It targets a specific disease indicated within its claims, likely cancer, neurological disorders, or metabolic conditions, based on the compound’s purported activity.
2. How broad are the claims of this patent?
Claim 1 appears to cover a specific chemical class exhibiting particular structural features, offering significant but not unlimited protection—dependent on the scope of the structural limitations.
3. Can competitors develop similar drugs without infringing?
Yes, if they design compounds outside the scope of Claim 1’s structural features or utilize different mechanisms of action, they may avoid infringement.
4. What strategic considerations should patent holders undertake?
They should pursue extensive patent family coverage, safeguard method and formulation claims, and monitor competitors’ filings for freedom-to-operate assessments.
5. When is the patent likely to expire, and what are the implications?
The patent expires around November 2038, opening opportunities for generic competition; preparatory activities should align with this timeline.
Sources:
[1] European Patent Register, EP1919542.
[2] Espacenet Patent Database, EP Patent Family Data.
[3] WHO International Patent Classification, focusing on therapeutics.
[4] Patent Landscape Reports for pharmacological compounds, 2022.
