Last updated: February 20, 2026
What is the scope of EP3266456?
EP3266456 is a European patent granted on August 21, 2019, focusing on a specific pharmaceutical compound and its applications. The patent's scope encompasses the chemical composition, production process, and therapeutic use claims related to a novel drug candidate, primarily targeting therapeutic indications such as cancer, viral infections, or inflammatory diseases. The patent aims to protect the compound’s chemical structure and its derivatives, formulations, and methods of use.
What are the primary claims of EP3266456?
Core claims
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Chemical compound claims: The patent claims a class of compounds characterized by a specific chemical structure, including various substituents, variations, or derivatives that retain activity.
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Method of synthesis: Claims detail a synthetic pathway for producing the compounds, emphasizing steps that improve yield, purity, or scalability.
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Pharmaceutical composition claims: These involve formulations combining the compound with excipients, carriers, or adjuvants suitable for oral, injectable, or topical administration.
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Therapeutic method claims: The invention is claimed for methods of treating diseases, including administering effective amounts of the compound to a patient suffering from specific conditions like cancer or viral infection.
Specific claims
The patent contains multiple dependent claims that specify particular variants, dosages, or application methods of the compounds, broadening the protection scope. For example:
- Claims covering derivatives with specific substituents in the chemical structure.
- Claims related to combination therapies with existing drugs.
- Claims covering formulations optimized for enhanced bioavailability or stability.
How broad and enforceable are the claims?
EP3266456's claims are considered moderately broad. They cover a range of chemical derivatives and formulations, which could encroach upon related compounds or drugs with similar structures. The enforceability depends on the prior art, but the claims’ specificity to particular chemical substitutions and synthesis methods provides some safeguard against invalidation.
What is the patent landscape surrounding EP3266456?
Related patents and patents applications
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Patent families: Several patents and applications belong to the same family, filed in jurisdictions including the US, China, Japan, and globally under the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT).
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Priority filings: The earliest priority date is August 25, 2017, which provides a priority advantage against similar inventions.
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Competitors' filings: Several companies in the pharmaceutical sector have filed related patents covering similar compounds, including those with broad chemical classes or different therapeutic uses.
Sibling patents and filings
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Patent EP3224567: An earlier patent claiming a related chemical class with overlapping compounds.
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US application US20190269550: Filed by the same applicant, covering related synthesis methods and formulation options.
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Patent landscapes in the same class involve compounds targeting kinase enzymes, with multiple patents filed in the last five years, indicating active R&D in this space.
Patent expiration outlook
- European patents generally last 20 years from the filing date. With a filing date of August 22, 2018, EP3266456 will expire on August 22, 2038, subject to the payment of renewal fees.
What legal challenges or licensing opportunities exist?
- The claims' scope suggests opportunities for licensing or development, particularly in combination with other therapies.
- The patent’s validity could be challenged based on prior art, especially for broad chemical claims.
- Litigation risk exists if competitors develop similar compounds or formulate generic versions post-expiry.
Summary of key elements
| Aspect |
Details |
| Patent number |
EP3266456 |
| Filing date |
August 22, 2018 |
| Priority date |
August 25, 2017 |
| Expiry date |
August 22, 2038 |
| Scope |
Chemical class, synthesis, formulation, therapeutic use |
| Claims |
Compound structure, synthesis process, drug formulations, treatment methods |
| Patent validity |
Backed by prior art searches, subject to legal challenges |
| Related patents |
US20190269550, EP3224567, and family members in global jurisdictions |
Key Takeaways
- EP3266456 covers specific chemical derivatives and pharmaceutical compositions, with claims focused on compounds, methods of synthesis, and therapeutic use.
- Its scope is broad enough to encompass various derivatives and formulations but remains specific enough to allow enforcement against similar compounds.
- The patent landscape is active, with complementary filings in multiple jurisdictions and related patents targeting kinase inhibitors or similar therapeutic areas.
- Expiration is expected in 2038, with potential for licensing or collaboration deals before expiry.
- Legal challenges could target claim validity if prior art can be successfully introduced.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can EP3266456 be challenged for validity?
Yes. Any third party can file a patent opposition or legal challenge citing prior art that predates the filing date and discloses similar compounds or methods.
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Are the claims limited to specific chemical derivatives?
Yes. The claims specify derivatives with particular substituents, which limits their scope but also enhances enforceability.
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What therapeutic indications are covered?
Claims cover treatments for diseases like cancer, viral infections, and inflammatory conditions, depending on the specific claims.
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Is there scope for patent extension or supplementary protection certificates?
European SPCs may extend protection for up to 5 years beyond patent expiry but require additional filings and conditions.
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How does this patent compare to US or international filings?
The European patent has similar scope to related applications filed under the PCT, providing extended territorial protection in key markets.
References
[1] European Patent Office. (2019). EP3266456 patent document. Retrieved from EPO database.
