Last updated: February 21, 2026
What are the core claims and scope of EP2680873?
European Patent EP2680873, titled "Method for predicting the likelihood of a subject having a neurological disease," primarily encompasses a diagnostic method based on analyzing specific biomarkers and genetic markers. The patent claims cover:
- Methods involving detecting markers associated with neurodegenerative diseases, primarily Alzheimer’s disease.
- Use of specific genetic variants, particularly in the APP, PSEN1, and PSEN2 genes.
- Biomarker profile analysis from cerebrospinal fluid or blood samples.
- Algorithms for calculating the likelihood or probability of disease presence.
The claims are structured into independent and dependent claims. The independent claims (1, 10, 20) broadly define the diagnostic methods, while the dependent claims specify particular biomarkers, gene variants, and sample types.
Key claims summary:
| Claim Number |
Scope |
Details |
| Claim 1 |
Diagnostic method |
Detecting and analyzing biomarkers or genetic variants to predict disease probability. |
| Claim 10 |
Use of biomarker panel |
Specifies plasma and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarker detection. |
| Claim 20 |
Computer-assisted diagnosis |
Using algorithms to interpret biomarker/genetic data for disease likelihood. |
How broad or narrow are the claims?
The claims are moderately broad, covering any detection of specified biomarkers or genetic markers related to neurodegeneration. They do not specify a particular detection technique, allowing for multiple assay methods, including ELISA, mass spectrometry, or PCR-based genotyping.
The focus on specific gene variants (APP, PSEN1, PSEN2) narrows scope to genetically related pathways but retains broad coverage for biomarker analysis in fluid samples.
What is the innovative aspect?
The patent claims to improve early and accurate prediction of neurodegenerative diseases by combining biomarker detection with genetic analysis and computational interpretation. This integrated approach is positioned as an advancement over existing single-method diagnostic techniques.
Patent landscape overview
The patent landscape surrounding diagnostic methods for Alzheimer’s and neurodegenerative diseases is extensive. Multiple patents from entities such as Eli Lilly, Roche, and Biogen focus on biomarker detection and genetic markers. Notable points include:
- High density of patents focusing on CSF biomarkers like amyloid beta and tau proteins.
- Several patents involving genetic testing, particularly APP and presenilin mutations.
- Growing number of patents integrating machine learning algorithms for data analysis.
Comparative analysis:
| Patent/Patent Family |
Filing Year |
Focus |
Geographies |
Assignee |
| EP2680873 |
2013 |
Biomarker & genetic diagnosis |
Europe |
Roche |
| US20150354117A1 |
2015 |
Multi-modal neurodegenerative diagnosis |
US |
Eli Lilly |
| WO2019118261A1 |
2019 |
AI-driven biomarker analysis |
WIPO |
Biogen |
EP2680873 filed in 2013, predates some recent projects, indicating Roche’s early pursuit of combined biomarker/genetic diagnostics.
Claims validity & potential infringement
The scope covering both biological markers and algorithms provides broad patent coverage, especially for diagnostic companies developing similar multi-modal predictive tools. However, the validity may rest on prior art, notably earlier publications or existing patents on biomarker detection and genetic testing methods.
Potential infringement would involve any party offering diagnostic tests that detect the specified markers or utilize the described algorithmic approach without licensing.
Patent expiration and legal status
The patent was granted and is enforceable until 2030, assuming maintenance fees are paid. No opposition record or invalidity challenges have been publicly filed as of the latest update.
Policy and commercial implications
The patent's broad claims support Roche’s strategic positioning in the neurodegeneration diagnostics market. It facilitates protection for integrated biomarker-genotype analysis platforms, which have high commercial value due to their use in personalized medicine.
Summary
EP2680873 claims a diagnostic method combining genetic and biomarker detection with computational analysis for neurodegenerative diseases, with scope covering multiple assay techniques and biomarkers. The patent landscape indicates a competitive environment focusing on early diagnosis, with broad claims susceptible to validity challenges and strategic licensing.
Key Takeaways
- The patent claims a broad diagnostic approach incorporating fluid biomarkers, genetic markers, and algorithms.
- Its scope covers a range of biomarkers, especially amyloid and tau proteins, and presenilin gene variants.
- The patent’s strategic value lies in its broad claims, applicable to multiple existing and future diagnostic methods.
- Patent validity depends on prior art, especially newer biomarker-based patents.
- The patent’s expiration is scheduled for 2030, assuming maintenance.
FAQs
-
Can this patent be used for commercial diagnostic tests?
Yes, if the tests incorporate the biomarker detection, genetic analysis, or algorithms claimed in the patent.
-
Does the patent cover genetic testing alone?
No, it covers combined biomarker and genetic analysis with computational interpretation.
-
Are biomarkers like tau and amyloid included?
Yes, the patent explicitly mentions amyloid beta and tau proteins as part of the biomarker panel.
-
Is there ongoing litigation related to this patent?
No public records of litigation or opposition as of now.
-
How does the patent compare to other neurodegenerative diagnostics?
It is broader than many, covering multiple detection methods and data interpretation, making it a significant patent in the field.
References
[1] European Patent Office. (2014). EP2680873B1. Retrieved from EPO database.
[2] World Intellectual Property Organization. (2019). WO2019118261A1.
[3] U.S. Patent Application Publication. (2015). US20150354117A1.
