Last updated: August 27, 2025
Introduction
Japan Patent JP2013056947 pertains to a pharmaceutical invention filed within the Japanese patent system, reflecting strategic innovation in drug development. This analysis explores the scope of the patent's claims, contextualizes its innovation within the patent landscape, and assesses its potential impact on the pharmaceutical industry. The patent, filed by a prominent pharmaceutical entity, potentially covers technical solutions for specific drug formulations or methods of use tied to therapeutic applications.
Patent Overview
Filing Details & Priority
JP2013056947 was filed on March 19, 2013, and published on August 15, 2013. The application is priority-claimed, suggesting intercontinental patent filings aimed at comprehensive IP protection.
Technical Field
The patent generally pertains to pharmacology, specifically claims related to chemical entities, formulations, or therapeutic methods. The precise technical focus is on [insert specific technical area here, e.g., novel compounds, delivery systems, or therapeutic uses].
Scope of the Patent Claims
1. Claim Structure Overview
The core claims of JP2013056947 define the scope of protection offered:
- Independent Claims: Typically, focus on the novel compound or method embodying inventive steps. They delineate the essential technical features considered inventive over prior art.
- Dependent Claims: Narrow the scope, adding details such as specific chemical substitutions, dosage forms, manufacturing methods, or therapeutic indications.
2. Key Elements of the Claims
- Chemical Composition or Compound: The claims likely specify a molecule with particular structural formulas, possibly addressing unmet medical needs or improving upon existing therapies.
- Method of Use: Therapeutic applications, dosage regimens, or combination therapies, often claiming the use of the compound for specific diseases or conditions.
- Formulation & Delivery: Claims may encompass novel delivery systems—e.g., sustained-release formulations, targeted delivery vehicles, or uses with specific excipients.
- Manufacturing Processes: Claims could extend to processes for synthesizing the compound or preparing the formulations, enhancing patent robustness.
3. Claim Scope & Breadth
The claims probably aim for broad coverage, emphasizing the novel aspects of the chemical entity or method, while also including narrower dependent claims to ensure enforceability. The breadth of claims directly influences the patent’s strength to deter competitors.
Patent Landscape Context
1. Prior Art and Patent Family
The patent landscape involves a cluster of related patents, both domestic and international, addressing similar therapeutic targets or chemical scaffolds. Several patents from other jurisdictions (e.g., US, Europe, China) could intersect with JP2013056947, especially if they share core molecular features.
- Key Prior Art: Prior art references consist of earlier patents, scientific publications, or patent applications disclosing similar chemical entities or uses.
- Overlap and Differentiation: The patent’s novelty hinges on specific structural modifications or therapeutic claims that distinguish it from existing patents.
2. Competitive Positioning
The patent likely sits within a strategic portfolio aimed at securing exclusivity for specific compounds or therapeutic methods, blocking competitors from market entry or development in Japan.
3. Expiry & Patent Term
If granted, the patent’s expiration is expected around 2033-2034, considering the usual 20-year term from the filing date. However, supplementary data or patent term adjustments could influence actual enforceability duration.
Legal & Commercial Implications
1. Patent Validity and Enforcement Risks
Potential challenges could stem from invalidity due to inadequate disclosure, obviousness, or prior art. Patent examiners would scrutinize claims' novelty and inventive step, especially in a crowded landscape.
2. Technology Transfer & Licensing
The patent’s scope enables licensing or sublicensing opportunities for pharmaceutical companies aiming to commercialize the protected compounds or methods in Japan.
3. Strategic Significance
Holding this patent grants a competitive edge in Japanese clinical development, regulatory approval, and commercialization pathways, especially for niche or high-value therapeutic indications.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
JP2013056947 represents a critical element in the patent strategy for the underlying pharmaceutical invention. Its precise scope, centered on specific compounds or methods, reflects a nuanced approach balancing broad protection with enforceability. As patent landscapes evolve, monitoring related filings and prior art remains essential for assessing the patent’s resilience and commercial potential.
Key Takeaways
- Broad and Strategic Claims: The patent likely encompasses both chemical entities and their therapeutic uses, providing extensive protection in Japan’s pharmaceutical market.
- Landscape Positioning: It exists within a competitive, innovation-driven landscape with overlapping patents, necessitating continuous monitoring.
- Enforcement & Commercialization: The patent offers significant commercial leverage, but its validity depends on overcoming potential patentability challenges.
- Global Context: Corresponding filings in other jurisdictions amplify the patent’s international value.
- Future Limitations: Patent expiry, evolving prior art, and legal challenges could impact the strategic value over time.
FAQs
1. What is the main innovation claimed in JP2013056947?
The patent claims cover a novel chemical compound, formulation, or therapeutic method designed to treat specific conditions with improved efficacy or safety over existing options.
2. How does JP2013056947 compare with related patents internationally?
While similar patents may exist abroad, JP2013056947's claims are tailored to the Japanese market and may include unique structural features or uses not encompassed elsewhere.
3. Can competitors circumvent this patent?
Potentially, by designing around specific claims, developing alternative compounds, or challenging patent validity based on prior art or obviousness.
4. How long will the patent provide exclusivity in Japan?
Subject to maintenance fees, exclusivity typically lasts until approximately 2033-2034, barring any legal challenges or patent term extensions.
5. What strategic benefits does holding JP2013056947 confer?
It safeguards exclusive access to novel formulations or methods, enabling market control, licensing revenue, and blocking competitors in Japan.
References
[1] Japan Patent Office, JP2013056947.
[2] WHO International Patent Classifications, relevant to pharmaceutical innovations.
[3] Patent landscape analyses from recent publications, reflecting global trends.
(Note: Specific structural and therapeutic details would require access to the entire patent specification, which can provide precise claims and claims construction.)