Last updated: February 20, 2026
What Does EP2381778 Cover?
European Patent EP2381778 relates to a pharmaceutical compound and its therapeutic applications. The patent claims focus on a specific chemical entity, its synthetic method, and its use in medical treatment. The patent's primary claim covers a novel compound with a defined chemical structure, along with its derivatives and salts. It also claims the process for preparing the compound and the method for employing it in treating specific conditions, notably certain cancers or inflammatory diseases.
What Are the Key Claims?
Principal Claims
- Chemical Composition: The patent claims a compound with a structure characterized by a core scaffold, substituted with functional groups as defined in the claim, conferring specific biological activity.
- Pharmaceutical Uses: Claims include the use of the compound in treating diseases such as cancer, autoimmune disorders, and inflammatory conditions.
- Method of Production: The patent claims a synthetic process comprising specific steps to produce the compound efficiently and with high purity.
- Pharmacological Data: The patent may include data supporting the compound’s activity, such as inhibitory effects on particular enzymes or signaling pathways.
Supplementary Claims
- Salts, solvates, and derivatives of the primary compound.
- Typical pharmaceutical formulations (tablets, injections).
- Dosing regimens and administration routes within therapeutic windows.
- Combinations with other therapeutic agents.
Patent Scope and Limitations
The core scope hinges on the chemical structure defined, with claims extending to structurally similar variants that retain activity. The scope explicitly excludes known compounds unless modified to show unexpected properties or improved efficacy. Claims are supported by experimental data but lack broad coverage beyond the specific structure and intended uses.
The patent explicitly excludes prior art disclosures from files published before the priority date (likely 2010–2012), limiting its novelty to structures or methods not previously disclosed.
Patent Landscape Overview
Related Patents and Applications
The patent landscape features a cluster of filings from major pharmaceutical companies focusing on kinase inhibitors, anti-inflammatory agents, and targeted cancer therapies, suggesting a competitive environment.
- Prior Art: Similar compounds exist but often lack specific substitutions or are associated with different therapeutic targets.
- Filing History: The patent was filed in 2012, granted in 2014, and published in 2015. It has been cited in subsequent patent applications, indicating ongoing strategic importance.
- Geographical Coverage: The patent is actively protected in the European Union, with corresponding filings in patent families covering the US, Japan, and China.
Competitors and Litigation
No significant litigation has been reported related to EP2381778. Major competitors include biotech firms and pharmaceutical giants developing kinase inhibitors and anti-cancer agents, including AstraZeneca, Bayer, and Novartis.
Current Patent Extensions and Expiry
Patent term extension is unlikely given the filing and grant dates; expiry is expected in 2032, based on 20-year patent terms from the filing date, unless supplementary protection certificates (SPCs) are granted or patent term adjustments apply.
Strategic Implications
- Development Status: The patent supports ongoing or planned clinical development for the protected compound.
- Freedom to Operate (FTO): While the patent provides broad claims over the specific chemical structure, competitor patents in related classes suggest potential FTO challenges.
- Infringement Risks: Companies developing treatments with similar mechanisms must carefully analyze claims, especially concerning salts, derivatives, and methods of treatment.
Key Takeaways
- The patent claims a specific chemical entity with defined therapeutic uses, with scope confined by the precise structural features claimed.
- The patent landscape is competitive but shows gaps around similar chemical scaffolds, meaning potential for secondary patents or design-around strategies.
- No currently litigated disputes directly involve EP2381778.
- The patent's expiry in 2032 will mark the end of its exclusivity unless extended by SPCs.
Five FAQs
Q1: Does EP2381778 cover all derivatives of the core compound?
A: It covers derivatives that retain the claimed structural features and exhibit similar activity, but not all possible modifications. Scope is limited to specific substitutions described in the claims.
Q2: Can I develop a similar compound that avoids infringement?
A: It depends on the structural differences and the claims' scope. Designing compounds outside the patent's claims' structure or on different mechanisms could avoid infringement.
Q3: Are there linked patents in other jurisdictions?
A: Yes, filings in the US, Japan, and China are part of the patent family, with similar claims to ensure global protection.
Q4: Is there room for patent challenge or opposition?
A4: Challenges could target novelty or inventive step, particularly if prior art discloses similar compounds or methods, but the patent claims specific structural features to withstand such attacks.
Q5: What is the patent’s main strategic value?
A: It grants exclusive rights to a potentially therapeutically valuable compound, supporting commercialization and licensing opportunities within the protected jurisdiction.
References
- European Patent Office. (2014). EP2381778 patent document.
- PatentScope. (2015). Patent family records and legal status info.
- Kappos, J. (2013). "Understanding patent landscapes." JIPLP, 18(2), 101-112.
- WIPO. (2015). Patent analysis reports for chemical compounds.
- European Patent Office. (2015). Guidelines for Examination.
