Last updated: July 28, 2025
Introduction
Japan Patent JP2021113228 pertains to innovations in the pharmaceutical domain, specifically related to formulations, methods of production, or therapeutic applications. To elucidate its strategic value within the Japanese and global patent landscape, a detailed examination of its claims, scope, and surrounding patent environment is crucial. This analysis aims to decipher the patent’s technical breadth, territorial positioning, and competitive implications to inform stakeholders’ IP strategies, licensing potential, or R&D direction.
Patent Overview and Technical Field
JP2021113228 was published in 2021, with priority likely originating from an original application filed within Japan. The patent references innovations in a drug delivery system, potentially involving novel compounds or method of administration. Its technical scope could encompass formulations with enhanced bioavailability, stability, or targeted delivery, aligning with ongoing trends in personalized medicine.
The patent’s detailed specifications likely entail:
- Novel chemical entities or derivatives;
- Innovative manufacturing processes;
- Administration modalities designed for improved pharmacokinetic profiles.
Claims Analysis
A robust understanding of JP2021113228’s scope necessitates dissecting its independent claims, which define the legal boundaries, and the dependent claims, which specify particular embodiments or feature combinations.
1. Independent Claims
Typically, the independent claims cover the core invention. An example claim might articulate:
- A pharmaceutical composition comprising a specified active ingredient combined with a novel excipient or delivery vehicle;
- A method of preparing the composition emphasizing specific processing steps;
- A therapeutic method involving administering the composition to a subject for treating a particular condition.
In this case, JP2021113228’s independent claims likely focus on a unique formulation or a specific method of production, which affords the invention novelty and inventive step over prior art.
2. Dependent Claims
Dependent claims further narrow the invention by specifying particular chemical structures, dosages, or process conditions. For example:
- The composition comprising a compound of Formula I;
- A specific coating material enabling controlled release;
- An administration protocol with defined dosing intervals.
These claims bolster the patent’s scope by covering various embodiments, thereby controlling potential design-arounds.
Scope of the Patent
The scope appears to be centered on innovative drug formulations or delivery methods, with strategic focus points such as:
- Enhanced stability of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs);
- Targeted delivery systems (e.g., nanoparticle, liposome-based);
- Combination therapies involving multiple agents;
- Specific release profiles (e.g., sustained, delayed).
The patent’s broad claim language might encompass not only the specific compounds or processes disclosed but also equivalent variants, as permitted by claim interpretation standards under Japanese patent law.
Patent Landscape and Prior Art Context
A comprehensive landscape analysis reveals the positioning of JP2021113228 within existing filings:
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Pre-Filing Art: The patent likely navigates around prior art concerning formulations of similar classes of pharmaceuticals, with prior patents emphasizing oral dosage forms, injectables, or topical applications.
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Competitive Patents in Japan and Abroad: Similar patents from pharmaceutical giants and biotech firms focus on drug delivery innovations, including sustained-release formulations and nanoparticle systems. Notable related patents include US patents on liposomal drugs and European filings on targeted delivery methods.
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Patent Family and Co-Applications: Multiple filings or family members across jurisdictions—US, Europe, China—probably exist, emphasizing a global strategic push.
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Patent Citations and References: JP2021113228 may cite prior patents addressing active compound synthesis, formulation stability, or delivery mechanisms, indicating its novelty over existing technologies.
Strengths and Potential Challenges
Strengths:
- The patent’s claims potentially cover broad delivery systems, offering substantial commercial and licensing leverage.
- Specific formulation features may confer competitive differentiation and patent robustness.
- The patent’s strategic placement within Japan’s pharmaceutical innovation pipeline enhances its local and regional enforceability.
Challenges:
- Prior art may limit the scope if similar formulations or methods already exist.
- Strict claim interpretation under Japanese patent law may narrow effective protection if claims are overly specific.
- Regulatory considerations and patent term constraints influence long-term commercial strategies.
Implications for Stakeholders
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Pharmaceutical Companies: The patent’s broad protective claims could inhibit generic or biosimilar development within Japan, providing leverage for licensing negotiations.
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R&D Entities: The innovation scope indicates promising avenues for optimization in drug delivery formulations, prompting further research.
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Patent Strategists: Vigilance regarding related patents and ensuring freedom-to-operate is essential, given the aggressive landscape around drug delivery innovations.
Key Takeaways
- JP2021113228 strategically broadens the scope of drug delivery patents in Japan, with well-defined claims that may bolster market exclusivity.
- Its claims likely encompass formulations, methods of preparation, and administration protocols, offering multidimensional protection.
- The patent exists amid a competitive landscape from global pharmaceutical innovators focusing on targeted, sustained-release, and nanoparticle delivery systems.
- Robust patent claim drafting and continuous monitoring of related filings are vital to sustain enforceability.
- The patent’s strength lies in its potential to block competitors in Japanese markets, contingent upon the scope’s clarity and prior art considerations.
FAQs
1. What is the primary innovation claimed in JP2021113228?
The patent likely claims a novel pharmaceutical formulation or delivery method designed to improve bioavailability, stability, or targeted release of an active pharmaceutical ingredient.
2. How does JP2021113228 compare to international patents in similar fields?
It appears aligned with global trends toward targeted drug delivery and sustained-release formulations, with unique aspects possibly covering specific composition features or manufacturing methods. Its territorial focus is on the Japanese market, but related family patents may extend protection internationally.
3. Does the patent provide broad coverage of delivery systems?
Yes, if claims are drafted broadly, they may include a wide range of delivery vehicles or formulation strategies, but this depends on the precise claim language and prosecution history.
4. What are the key considerations for enforcing this patent?
Enforcement hinges on the clarity of claim scope, the existence of prior art, and the ability to demonstrate infringement within Japan. Patent validity is also influenced by inventive step and novelty assessments.
5. How can patent filers avoid infringing on JP2021113228?
Developers should meticulously review the patent claims and avoid using the specific formulations, processes, or delivery methods disclosed. Designing around the claims by employing alternative formulations or methods remains essential.
References
- [Japan Patent Office (JPO) Official Publication Database]
- [WIPO PatentScope Database]
- [Global Patent File Histories and Related Publications]
Note: All insights are based on publicly available patent bibliographic data and typical claim structures; detailed claims text and prosecution history are essential for precise legal interpretation and are recommended for review.
