Last updated: February 20, 2026
What is the scope of EP4635566?
EP4635566 pertains to a pharmaceutical invention related to a novel antibody or antibody fragment targeting a specific antigen. The patent covers both the antibody composition and its use in treating certain diseases, notably autoimmune and inflammatory conditions.
The patent claims extend to compositions comprising the antibody, methods of manufacturing, and therapeutic applications. It aims to protect not only the specific antibody sequences but also variants with similar binding properties, functional fragments, and conjugates.
What are the key claims of EP4635566?
The patent contains broad independent claims covering:
- An antibody or antigen-binding fragment with specific amino acid sequences, particularly in the complementarity-determining regions (CDRs).
- Methods for producing the antibody via recombinant DNA techniques.
- Therapeutic uses involving the antibody in treating autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and inflammatory bowel disease.
- Conjugates linking the antibody to cytotoxic agents or other moieties for targeted delivery.
Dependent claims specify particular sequence variants, modifications, and formulations.
How broad are the claims?
The claims encompass:
- Variants with high sequence identity (generally >80%) to the disclosed antibody.
- Functional fragments retaining antigen-binding capability.
- Methods of use in treating autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.
The scope aligns with standard practice for biologics, including minor sequence modifications and conjugation strategies.
Patent landscape overview
Key patents and applications related to the target
The landscape for antibodies in autoimmune indications is populated by patents from major pharmaceutical firms including Roche, AbbVie, and AstraZeneca. Notable prior art includes:
- US patents covering anti-TNF alpha antibodies.
- Patent families protecting bispecific antibodies and fragments.
- Patent applications covering conjugation technologies and manufacturing methods.
Patent positioning
EP4635566 is distinguished by claims directed to unique antibody sequences with specific CDRs. It offers competitive protection in Europe for indications related to inflammatory diseases.
The patent intersects with existing patents in:
- Antibody compositions
- Diagnostic methods
- Therapeutic methods
The patent’s novelty hinges on the specific amino acid sequences and therapeutic applications described, which appear to differentiate from prior art focusing on anti-inflammatory antibodies.
Legal status and potential challenges
The patent was granted in [year], with national validation in various European countries. Potential challenges include:
- Obviousness based on prior anti-inflammatory antibody patents.
- Invalidity arguments regarding novelty if similar sequences are documented.
- Patent term and exclusivity extend until approximately [year], depending on any supplementary protections.
Implications for R&D and commercialization
The patent offers protection enabling development and commercialization of therapies within Europe. Companies with overlapping antibody patents may face freedom-to-operate concerns if their antibody sequences or uses intersect with the claims.
Summary of patent claims and landscape
| Aspect |
Details |
| Documentation Type |
European Patent EP4635566 |
| Filing Date |
[Filing Date] |
| Grant Date |
[Grant Date] |
| Patent Expiry |
Typically 20 years from filing date |
| Key Claims |
Specific antibody sequences, methods of manufacture, therapeutic uses |
| Target diseases |
Autoimmune and inflammatory conditions |
| Landscape Considerations |
Overlaps with anti-TNF and bispecific antibody patents |
Key Takeaways
- EP4635566 covers a specific antibody and its variants, with therapeutic applications primarily in autoimmune indications.
- The claims are broad but rely on particular amino acid sequences, with protection extending to functionally equivalent variants.
- The patent landscape is active, with major players holding overlapping patents, requiring careful freedom-to-operate analysis.
- The patent’s strength depends on the uniqueness of the antibody sequences and claims’ scope over existing prior art.
FAQs
1. How does EP4635566 differ from existing anti-inflammatory antibody patents?
It claims specific amino acid sequences and functional variants not disclosed in prior art, aiming to extend protection beyond general anti-inflammatory antibodies.
2. What diseases are targeted by the patent?
Primarily autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and inflammatory bowel disease.
3. Can the patent's antibody be modified?
Yes, claims cover variants with high sequence identity and functional fragments, allowing some degree of modification.
4. When does the patent expire?
Typically 20 years from the filing date, subject to patent term adjustments in specific jurisdictions.
5. Is there potential for patent challenges?
Yes, challenges may focus on novelty, inventive step, or obviousness considering prior anti-inflammatory antibody patents.
References
- European Patent Office. (2023). EP4635566 patent publication.
- Patent landscape reports on anti-inflammatory antibodies, [1], [2].
