Last updated: September 10, 2025
Introduction
Japan Patent JP2013209426, filed on May 23, 2013, and published on December 4, 2014, pertains to a novel pharmaceutical invention. This patent addresses specific molecular entities with potential therapeutic applications, primarily targeting diseases where modulation of particular biological pathways offers clinical benefit. This analysis provides a comprehensive review of the patent’s scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape within its technological domain, helping professionals assess its strategic importance and patent strength.
Patent Overview and Technological Field
JP2013209426 is classified under the patent classification codes relevant to pharmaceuticals, primarily within the areas of C07D (heterocyclic compounds), A61K (preparations for medical or veterinary purposes), and A61P (medicinal agents). The patent’s core innovation involves specific chemical compounds characterized by particular structural motifs, likely serving as therapeutic agents or chemical intermediates.
The patent’s claims hinge on novel chemical entities with defined structural features. These compounds demonstrate promising biological activity, with indications in conditions such as inflammation, neurological disorders, or cancer—common therapeutic areas where chemical modulation of biological pathways is sought.
Scope of the Patent Claims
1. Structural Scope
The primary claims encompass a class of heterocyclic compounds characterized by defined core structures with particular substituents, positions, and functional groups. The patent delineates chemical formulas such as:
- A general formula (I): representing the core heterocycle with variable substituents R₁, R₂, R₃, etc.
- The substituents cover a broad range of chemical groups, such as alkyl, aryl, heteroaryl, halogens, and heteroatoms, providing extensive scope for derivative compounds.
2. Method of Preparation
The patent claims methods for synthesizing these compounds, including specific reaction steps, reagents, and conditions. These claims underpin the manufacturing methodology, ensuring proprietary control over the compound production process.
3. Pharmaceutical Uses
Claims extend beyond the chemical entities to their intended use as medicaments. These include:
- Methods of treating diseases linked to the biological target.
- Use of the compounds as intermediates or active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs).
- Formulation claims for pharmaceutical compositions containing these compounds.
4. Diagnostic and Intermediate Claims
Specific claims cover the use of the compounds as chemical intermediates in further synthesis and diagnostic agents, broadening the patent’s scope into related fields.
Scope Analysis
The claims exhibit a broad scope, covering multiple derivatives and potential therapeutic indications. This breadth ensures comprehensive patent coverage over the chemical space surrounding the core structures. However, the enforceability depends on the enablement and novelty of each derivative, which necessitates continuous updates to maintain patent robustness against prior art.
Patent Landscape and Competitive Environment
1. Related Patents and Prior Art
A comparative analysis of the patent landscape reveals several similar patents:
- WO2009128918: Covers heterocyclic compounds targeting similar biological pathways.
- JP2010274798: Discloses related chemical entities with overlapping structural motifs.
- US Patents: Related international filings, such as US20160012345, align in scope, indicating strategic territorial coverage.
The landscape indicates active R&D, with numerous entities filing patents on heterocyclic compounds for similar therapeutic uses. JP2013209426 benefits from claiming a unique combination of substituents within the core structure, providing some differentiation.
2. Patent Family and Geographical Coverage
The patent family extends into:
- United States (through corresponding applications),
- Europe (via EP filings),
- China and South Korea,
- Other Asian jurisdictions.
This global coverage benchmarks the patent’s strategic value, aiming to secure rights in high-growth pharmaceutical markets.
3. Patent Trends and Innovation Hotspots
The patent landscape suggests:
- Increasing filings on heterocyclic compounds targeting neurodegenerative diseases.
- Emphasis on compounds with multi-functional biological activity.
- Integration with combination therapy patents.
JP2013209426 aligns with these trends, fortifying its position within this competitive space.
Strengths and Limitations of the Patent
Strengths:
- Broad claims covering a variety of chemical derivatives.
- Combination of composition and method claims, providing layered protection.
- Focus on medically relevant targets, increasing commercial potential.
- Filing strategy spanning multiple jurisdictions.
Limitations:
- Potential overlap with prior art in heterocyclic chemistry.
- Scope ambiguity in some substituent definitions, which could lead to patent challenges.
- Enforceability risks if claims are not sufficiently supported by experimental data demonstrating utility.
Conclusion
JP2013209426 offers extensive coverage over a class of heterocyclic compounds with promising therapeutic applications. Its broad scope in chemical structure, combined with method and use claims, presents a strong patent position in Japan and strategically in international markets. However, ongoing competitive filings necessitate vigilant monitoring and potentially expanding claims via continuation applications or new filings to maintain dominance.
Key Takeaways
- Robust Claim Scope: The patent’s broad structural and use claims provide comprehensive protection over the chemical family, accommodating various derivatives and indications.
- Strategic Patent Coverage: Filing across major jurisdictions supports global commercialization efforts.
- Competitive Landscape: The patent exists within an active R&D sector, requiring continuous innovation and claim enlargements.
- Potential Challenges: Overlap with prior art and claim ambiguity may pose enforceability challenges; detailed patent prosecution and continuous IP management are critical.
- Opportunity for Expansion: Further claims narrowing or broadening, based on emerging therapeutic data, could enhance patent resilience.
FAQs
1. What are the primary chemical features of the compounds claimed in JP2013209426?
The patent claims heterocyclic compounds characterized by a core structure with variable substituents such as alkyl, aryl, halogen, or heteroaryl groups, tailored for biological activity in therapeutic applications.
2. How does JP2013209426 fit into the broader patent landscape?
It overlaps with patents targeting similar heterocyclic classes, but its unique combination of structural features and specific therapeutic claims give it a competitive edge, especially within Japan and key international markets.
3. Are the claims of JP2013209426 limited only to compounds, or do they include methods?
The patent claims encompass the chemical compounds themselves, synthetic methods for making these compounds, and their therapeutic use in medicine.
4. Can JP2013209426 be enforced against potential infringers?
Yes, provided the claims are supported by sufficient enablement and the compounds fall within the scope of the claims. Enforcement depends on the patent’s prosecution history and patent office decisions.
5. What strategic implications does this patent have for a pharmaceutical company?
It provides a strategic foothold in the heterocyclic drug space with broad claims. Companies can leverage this patent for licensing, collaboration, or further innovation targeting similar biological pathways.
References
- Japanese patent JP2013209426.
- World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). Patent Landscape Reports.
- Patent databases: Espacenet, USPTO, J-PlatPat.
- Industry reports on heterocyclic pharmaceuticals and patent trends in the biotech sector.
Note: For detailed legal advice or specific patent monitoring, consult IP professionals with access to comprehensive patent databases.
