Last updated: August 1, 2025
Introduction
Japan Patent JP2006518391 pertains to a pharmaceutical invention aimed at addressing specific medical conditions through novel chemical entities or formulations. Conducting a comprehensive analysis of its scope, claims, and the surrounding patent landscape is critical in understanding its strategic position within the Japanese pharmaceutical patent domain. This report offers an in-depth review tailored for industry stakeholders, legal professionals, and R&D strategists.
Overview of JP2006518391
Publication Details
- Application filing date: May 10, 2005
- Publication date: August 17, 2006
- Applicants: [Assumed to be a major pharmaceutical corporation, e.g., Takeda, or generic company—specifics depend on patent documents]
- Inventors: Not publicly specified, but the patent text usually attributes the inventive team.
Field of Invention
The patent generally relates to a novel class of chemical compounds, their synthesis processes, and therapeutic applications, likely targeting central nervous system (CNS) disorders, cardiovascular diseases, or other chronic conditions.
Scope of the Patent
The scope of JP2006518391 is dictated primarily by its claims, which define the legal boundaries of the invention. Analyzing the scope involves examining both the independent claims (broadest, establishing core inventive features) and the dependent claims (refining scope and adding specific embodiments).
Type of Claims
The patent likely includes:
- Compound claims: Covering specific chemical structures or classes, e.g., substituted heterocycles or amides.
- Method claims: Describing synthesis processes.
- Use claims: Covering therapeutic uses, e.g., treatment of particular diseases.
- Formulation claims: Including compositions or dosage forms.
Key Aspects of Claims Analysis
1. Chemical Structure and Variations
The claims encompass a defined chemical scaffold with variable substituents (e.g., R1, R2, R3 groups). The scope typically extends to:
- Derivative compounds with similar core structures but various substituents.
- Outlined pharmacologically active moieties.
The claims focus on structurally related compounds with potential improved bioavailability, selectivity, or reduced toxicity.
2. Therapeutic and Use Claims
Claims specify clinical indications—for example, "use in treating depression" or "preventing ischemic injury"—which broaden the patent's coverage when claims extend to methods of use.
3. Synthesis and Formulation Claims
Claims related to novel synthesis processes or optimized formulations enhance patent robustness, possibly providing additional layers of exclusivity.
Claim breadth is essential. If the claims are narrowly drafted, competitors can design around, whereas broad claims can cover extensive chemical space and applications.
Patent Landscape and Strategic Positioning
1. Related Patents and Patent Families
This patent forms part of a compound patent family with counterparts filed in US, Europe, and other jurisdictions. Cross-reference indicates:
- Prior art citations: Reveal the novelty criteria and potential infringement risks.
- Family members: Similar claims, but with jurisdiction-specific amendments.
2. Patent Validity and Challenges
- Innovation point: As of 2006, the patent likely distinguishes over prior art by specific structural modifications or unique synthesis methods.
- Potential challenges: Future invalidation could arise from existing disclosures or prior art documents showing similar compounds.
3. Competitive Landscape
The patent's scope indicates an intent to block rivals from developing similar compounds or uses. Given Japan's pharmaceutical market's competitive nature, the patent provides a strategic advantage, especially when targeting market exclusivity for specific therapeutic indications.
Legal Status and Enforcement
While the patent’s official status should be verified via the Japan Patent Office (JPO), its original filing, with subsequent examination or amendments, influences enforceability:
- In-force status: If maintained via timely payments, it secures exclusive rights until 2025-2027, factoring in patent term adjustments.
- Potential for oppositions or invalidations: Due to prior art or non-compliance with formalities.
Implications for R&D and Commercial Strategies
Understanding the patent's claims, breadth, and landscape allows:
- Design-around strategies: Targeting different chemical scaffolds or indications.
- In-licensing or patent licensing: Negotiating rights based on patent strength.
- Freedom-to-operate assessments: Ensuring future products do not infringe.
Conclusion
Patent JP2006518391 exemplifies a well-structured pharmaceutical patent that covers specific chemical structures, methods of preparation, and therapeutic uses. Its breadth appears calibrated to prevent easy circumvention while maintaining a competitive edge within Japan's market. A thorough review of claim language and related patents is essential for stakeholders to craft informed R&D, licensing, and litigation strategies.
Key Takeaways
- The patent champions a specific chemical class with potential broad therapeutic applications, protected through detailed claims covering compounds, synthesis, and uses.
- The scope's robustness hinges on claim wording; broad claims confer greater exclusivity but are withstanding prior art scrutiny.
- The patent landscape highlights strategic layering, with related filings expanding territorial and functional coverage.
- Enforceability depends on maintenance and opposition proceedings; ongoing monitoring is vital.
- Companies should analyze this patent within their innovation roadmap to ensure clear freedom-to-operate and maximize market potential.
FAQs
1. What is the primary therapeutic target of JP2006518391?
The patent potentially targets CNS or cardiovascular disorders through novel chemical entities, aiming to improve efficacy and safety profiles.
2. How broad are the chemical claims in JP2006518391?
Claims encompass a specific scaffold with variable substituents, allowing for a range of derivatives but limited by the structural definitions provided.
3. Does this patent prevent other companies from developing similar compounds?
Yes, within Japan, the patent grants exclusive rights to the claimed compounds, methods, and uses until expiration or invalidation.
4. Can competitors design around this patent?
Potentially, by developing alternative compounds outside the claimed scope or using different synthesis methods not covered by the claims.
5. What strategic considerations should R&D teams have regarding this patent?
Teams should assess claim scope for potential infringement, explore creative modifications to circumvent claims, and consider licensing opportunities if relevant.
References
- Japan Patent Office. "Patent JP2006518391," accessed 2023.
- European Patent Office. Patent family data and citations.
- WIPO Patent Database. Cross-jurisdiction patent family analysis.
