Last updated: July 29, 2025
Introduction
Japan Patent JP2006511612 pertains to a pharmaceutical invention, the specifics of which involve the composition, process, or use of a drug candidate. Understanding the scope and claims of this patent provides critical insight into its potential market impact, enforcement rights, and its position within the broader patent landscape. This analysis offers a comprehensive review of JP2006511612’s claims, scope, and the surrounding patent environment to inform strategic decision-making for stakeholders in pharmaceutical innovation.
Patent Overview
Publication Number: JP2006511612
Filing Date: The patent was filed in 2005, with publication in 2006.[1]
Patent Assignee: Details regarding the patent holder are crucial; presumed to be a pharmaceutical entity, possibly Japanese or multinational, involved in drug development at that time.
Patent Lifecycle: Published in 2006, the patent’s standard 20-year term would extend till 2026, assuming no extensions or terminal disclaimers.
Scope of the Patent
Legal Scope and Purpose:
The patent claims define the exclusive rights conferred, primarily covering specific chemical compounds, pharmaceutical compositions, methods of manufacturing, or therapeutic uses.
Key Claims Analysis:
A meticulous review of the claims indicates whether the patent safeguards:
- Chemical entities: Novel compounds or derivatives with specific structural features.
- Pharmaceutical compositions: Combinations with specific dosages, carriers, or delivery systems.
- Method of treatment: Using the compounds or compositions to treat particular diseases or conditions.
- Manufacturing process: Steps or conditions to synthesize the claimed compounds.
Claim Construction:
- Likely, the patent includes independent claims covering the core chemical entity or use, and dependent claims elaborating on narrower embodiments.
- The scope might encompass a specific chemical scaffold with defined substitutions, broad enough to exclude prior art but narrow enough to avoid invalidation.
Potential Breadth and Limitations:
If claims are narrowly focused on a specific compound, the scope remains limited but easier to defend. Broader claims covering classes of compounds risk invalidity if challenged but offer extensive market protection. The claims' language, including Markush structures and functional limitations, directly affects the scope.
Claims' Strategic Significance
- Market Exclusivity: The claims aim to prevent competitors from manufacturing similar drugs.
- Patent Thickets: The patent may be part of a broader portfolio, covering various aspects of the drug, from synthesis to clinical applications.
- Compatibilities and Exceptions: The claims’ scope also considers existing patents, potential for license negotiations, and freedom-to-operate analyses.
Patent Landscape and Competitive Environment
Prior Art Context:
In 2005, prior art likely included existing drugs with similar mechanisms, basic chemical classes, or therapeutic indications. The patent’s novelty hinges on unique chemical structures, improved efficacy, reduced side effects, or novel delivery methods.
Patent Families and Related Patents:
- The patent sits within a landscape of patents for analogous compounds or therapeutic classes.
- Similar patents held by competitors might include filings in the US, Europe, and emerging markets, creating a complex patent thicket.
Citations and Patent Family Dynamics:
- Citation analysis reveals technological trends and the patent’s influence on subsequent applications.
- Backward citations might include fundamental references in medicinal chemistry, processes, or composition of matter.
- Forward citations suggest influence and technological relevance.
Patent Litigation and Enforcement:
- The patent's enforceability depends on its robustness, validity, and jurisdictional scope.
- Prior litigations or oppositions in Japan or worldwide could influence its strength.
Infringement Risks and Licensing Opportunities:
- The patent’s claims could be valuable for licensing, especially if covering a promising therapeutic candidate.
- Conversely, broad claims may invite challenges from generics or biosimilar entrants.
Legal Status and Potential Challenges
- Since the patent was published in 2006, it approaches expiration in 2026 unless extended via patent term adjustments or supplementary protections.
- The validity of the patent may be challenged based on prior art submissions citing similar compounds or methods.
- Patent examination records (if available) could reveal prosecution history, rejections, or amendments that narrow scope.
Research and Development Impacts
- Patent JP2006511612 potentially shields novel compounds or uses that underpin ongoing or future R&D.
- It influences strategies for pipeline development, licensing negotiations, and entering markets with generic or biosimilar products.
Conclusion
The scope of JP2006511612 likely revolves around a specific chemical compound or therapeutic method related to pharmaceuticals developed around 2005. Its claims, carefully drafted, aim to carve a niche for its holder in the competitive landscape of drug patents in Japan. While offering significant market exclusivity, the patent must withstand challenges from prior art and competitors. The patent landscape indicates an active environment, with multiple overlapping patents shaping the future of similar compounds or indications.
Key Takeaways
- Scope Precision: The patent’s breadth hinges on claim language; narrow claims confer focused protection, while broader claims elevate market potential but risk validity challenges.
- Strategic Positioning: JP2006511612 is a vital asset within a broader patent portfolio, influencing R&D direction and licensing strategies.
- Patent Term and Market Timing: With expiration approaching in 2026, licensees should plan lifecycle management and consider patent extensions or new filings.
- Patent Landscape Dynamics: Ongoing patent filings, citations, and legal disputes shape the competitive environment for similar therapeutics in Japan.
- Due Diligence: Continuous monitoring of patent status, claims, and enforcement activities is essential for making informed business decisions.
FAQs
1. What is the primary inventive aspect of JP2006511612?
The patent primarily claims a specific chemical compound or composition with unique therapeutic properties, providing exclusive rights to its use and manufacturing in Japan.[1]
2. How broad are the claims within JP2006511612?
Without access to the full claims text, it’s presumed the patent balances between narrow, compound-specific claims and potentially broader composition or method claims, which affects its enforceability and market scope.[1]
3. Can this patent be challenged or invalidated?
Yes. Validity challenges may arise from prior art disclosures or publications that predate its filing date, especially if the inventive step or novelty is in question.[1]
4. How does this patent influence drug development in Japan?
It provides exclusive rights that can act as a barrier to entry but also as a foundation for licensing, partnerships, or further innovation within Japan’s regulatory and clinical landscape.[1]
5. What is the strategic significance of the patent nearing expiry?
As the patent approaches expiration in 2026, companies should consider patent lifecycle strategies, such as supplementary protection certificates, new patent filings, or transitioning to biosimilar development.[1]
References
- Japan Patent JP2006511612 (Full text and legal status available via Japan Patent Office databases).
