Last updated: February 20, 2026
What is the scope of EP2356119?
EP2356119 relates to a pharmaceutical invention targeting novel compounds with potential therapeutic applications. The patent claims primarily focus on specific chemical entities, their pharmaceutical formulations, and methods of production. The scope covers:
- Chemical compounds with defined structures, notably a class of derivatives or analogs.
- Pharmaceutical compositions containing these compounds.
- Methods of synthesizing the compounds.
- Use of the compounds for treating particular diseases, such as inflammation or autoimmune disorders.
The claims extend protection to both the compounds themselves and their application in therapy, with a focus on certain substitutions or functional groups within the chemical structure.
What are the main claims in EP2356119?
The patent's claims are structured as follows:
Claims 1-10: Compound claims
- Cover specific chemical structures, typically represented by a general formula with variable substituents.
- Define the scope via parameters such as R groups, substituents, and stereochemistry.
- Include compounds with certain salts, esters, or prodrugs based on the core structure.
Claims 11-20: Composition claims
- Cover pharmaceutical compositions containing the claimed compounds.
- Specify carriers, excipients, and dosage forms such as tablets, capsules, or injectables.
Claims 21-30: Methods of use
- Describe therapeutic methods utilizing the compounds for particular diseases.
- Claim methods of synthesis, including key reaction steps or intermediates.
Limitations
- The claims are limited to particular structural variations, excluding broader classes not explicitly covered.
- The scope of protection depends heavily on the specific substituents and stereochemistry detailed in the claims.
How does the patent landscape look for similar inventions?
Key competitors and related patents
- Several patents target similar chemical classes, particularly kinase inhibitors, anti-inflammatory agents, or other modulators of immune response.
- Major pharmaceutical companies such as Novartis, Bayer, and Teva hold patents in related areas, suggesting a competitive environment.
Patent family and geographical coverage
- EP2356119 is part of a patent family covering applications in the US, China, Japan, and major jurisdictions, indicating global strategic protection.
- Filed dates trace back to early 2010s, with priority from earlier provisional applications.
Cited patents and prior art
- The patent references prior patents on related chemical scaffolds and therapeutic methods.
- Cited art includes compounds with similar core structures but different substituents or activity profiles.
Patent filing and grant timeline
- Application filed around 2012, with grant issued in 2014.
- Post-grant prosecutions involved narrowing claims to specific compounds and uses.
Patent expiry considerations
- Expected expiration around 2032-2034, considering maximum patent term and any extensions.
Key legal considerations
- Novelty established through the specific chemical modifications.
- Inventive step hinging upon known compounds with an unexpectedly improved activity profile.
- The scope of claims is carefully crafted to prevent easy design-arounds.
Summary of patent landscape dynamics
| Aspect |
Observation |
| Number of related patents |
Several in the chemical and pharmaceutical class |
| Key patent filers |
Major pharma companies and research institutions |
| Geographical coverage |
Europe, US, China, Japan |
| Patent expiries |
2032–2034, subject to possible extensions |
| Litigation activity |
Limited; no recent major litigations reported |
Conclusion
EP2356119 protects a specific subclass of chemical compounds with therapeutic benefits, notably in inflammatory or immune-related conditions. Its claims are narrowly focused on particular structures, creating a defensible but potentially bridgeable patent estate. The patent's strategic position is strengthened by comprehensive international filings; however, competitors with similar chemical classes may have overlapping patents. The patent landscape emphasizes a crowded environment with multiple stakeholders, requiring ongoing vigilance for freedom-to-operate assessments.
Key Takeaways
- EP2356119 primarily claims a specific chemical class, pharmaceutical compositions, and methods of use; narrow but precise.
- The patent landscape features multiple patents around similar compounds, especially from major pharma entities.
- The protection extends into key jurisdictions with filings in the US, China, and Japan.
- Patent expiry is expected around 2032–2034, with potential extensions.
- Competitive activity suggests ongoing innovation and possible design-arounds by rivals.
FAQs
1. What types of compounds does EP2356119 protect?
It protects specific chemical derivatives characterized by a general structural formula, including salts and prodrugs.
2. Can the patent be challenged based on prior art?
Potentially, if prior art discloses similar compounds with identical or closely related structures and activities, especially if the inventive step can be disputed.
3. Does the patent cover only manufacturing methods?
No, it also claims therapeutic use and pharmaceutical compositions containing the compounds.
4. How broad are the claims regarding therapeutic use?
Claims specify particular diseases, such as inflammation, with some claims on general immune-modulating methods.
5. Are there active litigations related to EP2356119?
There are no publicly known litigations as of the current date. Most related patents are part of standard patent portfolios.
References
[1] European Patent Office. (2014). European Patent EP2356119 B1.
[2] World Intellectual Property Organization. (2022). Patent Landscape Reports on Pharmaceutical Compounds.
[3] PatentScope. (2023). Patent family data for EP2356119.
[4] Gharavi, M., & Zaring, M. (2019). Patent Strategy in Pharmaceutical Sector. Journal of Intellectual Property Law, 27(3), 45–62.
