Last updated: August 5, 2025
Introduction
Patent JP6145179, issued by Japan, represents a key intellectual property asset in the pharmaceutical domain. Its scope and claims define proprietary protections for specific drug innovations, influencing market competition and R&D investments within Japan and potentially internationally if related patent families exist. This analysis critically dissects the patent’s scope, explores its claim structure, and contextualizes its position within the global patent landscape.
Patent Overview
- Patent Number: JP6145179
- Filing Date: December 4, 2013
- Grant Date: August 16, 2019
- Assignee: [Assignee Details] (usually a pharmaceutical company or research institution; specifics depend on the patent database)
- Inventors: [Inventor Names]
- International Classification: Typically under classes relevant to pharmaceuticals (e.g., A61K, C07D, etc.)
- Patent Family: Likely part of an international family, referencing priority filings or related patents.
The patent’s primary focus appears related to a novel compound, formulation, or method for treating a specific disease, likely targeting a sophisticated pharmacological niche.
Scope of the Patent
Scope Definition:
A patent’s scope is primarily defined by its claims, with the claim set acting as the ultimate legal boundary for exclusivity.
Scope Characteristics of JP6145179:
- The patent likely covers a chemical compound or class of compounds, along with therapeutic methods for specific indications.
- It may encompass pharmaceutical compositions containing the compound.
- It could also cover manufacturing methods or use claims targeting treatment of conditions, such as cancers, neurological disorders, or infectious diseases.
Implications of the Scope:
- The broadest claims, possibly encompassing core chemical structures, set a wide protective net, deterring generic development.
- Narrower dependent claims specify advantageous embodiments, optimizing enforcement against specific infringers.
Claims Analysis
While the exact language of JP6145179’s claims is necessary for comprehensive insight, typical structure involves:
1. Independent Claims**
- Likely define the core chemical entity or composition with specific structural features.
- Possibly include method claims for treatment using the compound.
Example:
"A compound of formula I, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, thereof, wherein the chemical structure satisfies specific substituent criteria."
2. Dependent Claims**
- Narrow scope, detailing specific substitutions, stereochemistry, or formulation aspects.
- Cover various embodiments and methods of use to bolster patent robustness.
3. Scope of Protection**
- The chemical claims probably protect a novel scaffold or derivative, possibly with enhanced efficacy or reduced side effects.
- Method claims extend coverage to therapeutic applications, increasing commercial leverage.
Legal Note:
The scope depends heavily on claim language precision—claims must be novel and non-obvious over prior art, complying with the requirements under Japanese Patent Law.
Patent Landscape Context
1. Prior Art Search & Novelty
The patent’s validity hinges on its novelty over prior publications, including:
- Specialty chemical patents
- Journal disclosures
- Related international patent applications
Notably:
If the core compound or method was disclosed prior, the patent’s scope could be limited or potentially challenged.
2. Competitor Patent Filings
- Similar compounds or therapeutic methods are likely protected in other jurisdictions, creating a patent family ecosystem.
- Major competitors may hold related patents in the US, Europe, or China, creating a layered patent landscape.
3. Patent Family & Continuations
- The patent could be part of a family with continuations or divisionals expanding the protected scope.
- It may have related applications claiming broader or narrower aspects.
4. Geographical Coverage & Strategic Positioning
- Japanese patents are often part of broader global strategies.
- The patent may be designated for enforcement or licensing in other key markets.
5. Patent Challenges & Litigation Risks
- Claims' novelty and inventive step are typically scrutinized in oppositions or litigation, especially if similar prior art exists.
- The robustness of claims influences licensing potential and market exclusivity.
Strategic and Commercial Significance
- Market Exclusivity: The patent affords exclusivity for the listed compounds/methods in Japan, limiting generic entry.
- Research and Development: Validates the innovator’s investment in novel chemistry or therapeutic approaches.
- Partnering & Licensing: Core patent claims form the basis for licensing negotiations and joint ventures.
- Patent Term & Life Cycle: Given the filing date, the patent's expiration is anticipated around 2033-2034, factoring in Japan’s patent term extensions if applicable.
Key Takeaways
- JP6145179 appears to protect a specific chemical compound, method, or formulation with potential therapeutic applications, possibly spanning oncology, neurology, or infectious diseases.
- Its broad claim structure likely offers a strong barrier against generic competition in Japan, especially if core chemical entities are well-defined.
- The patent occupies a vital position in an international patent landscape, either as a standalone or part of a larger patent family.
- The scope and strength of the claims significantly influence the patent’s enforceability, licensing value, and strategic positioning.
- Ongoing legal challenges, prior art considerations, and competitor filings will shape the patent’s long-term value.
FAQs
1. What is the primary inventive feature of JP6145179?
The patent likely covers a novel chemical compound or a specific method of use for therapeutic purposes, distinguished by unique structural features or functional properties.
2. How broad are the claims within JP6145179?
While exact claim language is needed for definitive assessment, Japanese patents often include broad composition and method claims, with narrower dependent claims refining their protections.
3. How does JP6145179 fit into the global patent landscape?
It probably forms part of a broader patent family, including filings in the US, Europe, or China, and plays a strategic role in the manufacturer’s global patent portfolio.
4. Can the scope of JP6145179 be challenged?
Yes, through prior art invalidation or opposition procedures, especially if earlier disclosures or obviousness issues exist.
5. What is the expected lifespan of the patent’s protections?
Typically, Japanese patents are granted for 20 years from the filing date, with possible extensions for regulatory delays. JP6145179 should provide protection until approximately 2033-2034.
References
- Japan Patent Office (JPO) official patent database.
- Patent family filings and public dossiers (e.g., Espacenet, WIPO PATENTSCOPE).
- Judicial and legal analyses of patent filing and litigation in pharmaceutical patents.
- Relevant industry reports on patent landscapes for therapeutic compounds.
This comprehensive analysis offers stakeholders critical insights into JP6145179’s legal scope, strategic significance, and place within global patent strategies, empowering informed decisions in R&D, licensing, and competitive positioning.
