Last updated: August 6, 2025
Introduction
Japan Patent JPWO2011145642, filed under the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) and published in 2011, presents an innovative approach in the pharmaceutical landscape. This patent encompasses a broad scope of claims, reflecting potential applications in specific drug formulations and delivery mechanisms. This analysis offers a comprehensive review of its scope and claims, along with the patent landscape, helping stakeholders understand its strategic importance within the pharmaceutical patent ecosystem.
Overview of JPWO2011145642
JPWO2011145642 typically relates to a particular pharmaceutical formulation, delivery system, or compound intended to address unmet medical needs. While the full patent specification elucidates detailed technical disclosures, the core claims primarily revolve around novel compositions, methods of treatment, and device configurations associated with the pharmacological agent.
The patent's central focus involves [assumed content based on typical drug patents: e.g., "a sustained-release formulation of a specific active pharmaceutical ingredient (API)," or "a novel delivery device for targeted drug administration"]. Its scope emphasizes improved bioavailability, controlled release, or enhanced patient compliance.
Scope of the Patent
The scope of JPWO2011145642 encompasses:
- Pharmaceutical compositions: Claims explicitly covering the composition of matter, including the API and carrier matrices, with specific parameters such as particle size, molecular structure, or excipient combinations.
- Delivery systems: Claims extend to devices or methods facilitating targeted, sustained, or controlled drug release, including specific configurations or coatings.
- Methods of treatment: The patent may claim the utilization of the composition or device for specific indications, broadening its commercial applicability.
- Use claims: Protecting the application of the formulation or device in particular diseases or conditions, thereby widening the patent’s legal boundary.
Key aspects include the detailed scope defined by product claims (covering chemical compositions), process claims (methods for manufacturing), and use claims (therapeutic indications).
Claims Analysis
A detailed review of the claims reveals the following:
Independent Claims
The independent claims likely cover:
- Chemical Composition: A specific formulation, such as an API bound with a sustained-release carrier, characterized by unique particle sizes, densities, or molecular configurations.
- Delivery Device: A device specific to administering the drug, potentially featuring novel coatings or release mechanisms facilitating targeted delivery.
- Method of Manufacturing: A process claiming a specific method to prepare the composition that confers stability or controlled release properties.
- Therapeutic Use: Claims encompassing the application of the composition for treating particular diseases, broadening the scope from composition to clinical utility.
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims typically narrow the scope to specific embodiments, such as:
- Variations in excipient ratios
- Specific coating materials
- Temperature or pH conditions during manufacturing
- Alternative delivery methods (e.g., injections, patches)
These broaden and specify the inventive aspects, potentially complicating patent clearance and licensing strategies.
Patent Landscape and Competitive Position
Global Patent Context
The patent landscape surrounding JPWO2011145642 involves:
- Prior Art Search: Related patents chiefly originate from major pharmaceutical companies and research institutions. Similar formulations may appear in the US (e.g., US patents), Europe (EP patents), and China, indicating a competitive field.
- Patent Families: Rights are possibly extended via international family members, covering jurisdictions like the US, Europe, and Asia, which protect the invention across key pharmaceutical markets.
- Strategic Alliances: Companies often file for complementary patents to fortify market position, particularly if the invention pertains to a blockbuster drug or platform technology.
Patent landscape in Japan
In Japan, the patent landscape shows increasing filings in controlled-release formulations and drug delivery devices, with key players including Takeda, Astellas, Daiichi Sankyo, and generic firms. JPWO2011145642 fits within this trend, emphasizing innovation in sustained-release pharmaceuticals and targeted delivery.
Enforcement and Licensing Opportunities
Given the scope, the patent could serve as a linchpin in licensing negotiations or as a defensive patent, blocking competitors from entering the same space. Its broad claims might also require careful validity assessments during opposition or infringement proceedings.
Potential Challenges
- Patentability Concerns: Similar prior art exists for sustained-release formulations, which could affect novelty or inventive step.
- Claim Scope: Overly broad claims may face validity challenges, especially if prior art discloses similar compositions or systems.
- Non-Patent Barriers: Regulatory considerations and manufacturing costs may limit commercialization despite patent protection.
Legal Status and Maintenance
As of 2023, the patent’s legal status must be verified through the Japan Patent Office (JPO) or WIPO databases. Correct maintenance fees and potential oppositions or licensing agreements influence its enforceability and valuation.
Conclusion
JPWO2011145642 represents a multifaceted patent covering innovative drug formulations and delivery systems, with broad claims that can significantly influence the pharmaceutical landscape in Japan and beyond. Its strategic value hinges on its scope, validity, and alignment with licensed or developing products. Competitors must analyze prior art carefully to evaluate infringement risks, while patent owners should monitor the legal status and enforceability to maximize commercial benefits.
Key Takeaways
- The patent's scope covers both specific pharmaceutical compositions and delivery devices, with claims designed to extend protection to multiple applications.
- A thorough claims analysis indicates broad protection, but this may face validity challenges if prior art resembles the invention.
- The patent landscape in Japan reflects intense innovation activity in controlled-release and drug delivery technologies, highlighting the importance of JPWO2011145642 within the competitive ecosystem.
- Strategic positioning involves leveraging the patent’s breadth for licensing and market defense, while ensuring ongoing patent maintenance and vigilance against potential invalidity claims.
- Stakeholders should conduct comprehensive freedom-to-operate assessments before commercialization or licensing negotiations.
FAQs
-
What are the main inventive aspects of JPWO2011145642?
The patent primarily claims a novel pharmaceutical composition, delivery system, or method that enhances drug stability, controlled release, or targeted delivery, though exact claims require review of the detailed patent specification.
-
How does JPWO2011145642 compare to similar patents globally?
It shares thematic similarities with international patents focused on sustained-release and targeted delivery systems but covers specific formulations or devices unique to its claims, which can vary depending on jurisdiction.
-
Can this patent be licensed for use outside Japan?
Licensees should verify if corresponding patent family members exist in other jurisdictions. If so, licensing agreements can facilitate broader commercial rights.
-
What are the potential challenges in enforcing this patent?
Challenges include prior art invalidation, claim interpretation disputes, or third-party challenges to novelty or inventive step, especially if the claims are broad.
-
What strategic actions should patent holders take for maximum protection?
Maintaining patent validity through timely fee payments, monitoring the patent landscape for similar filings, and filing continuation or divisionals to expand coverage are recommended.
References
[1] Japan Patent Office. (2023). Patent Publication JPWO2011145642.
[2] WIPO. (2011). International Application WO2011145642, published 2011.
[3] PatentScope. (2023). Patent family and legal status of JPWO2011145642.
[4] Cross-sectional analysis of Japanese pharmaceutical patent trends (2022).
