Last updated: August 10, 2025
Introduction
Patent KR100924737, issued in South Korea, pertains to a pharmaceutical invention focusing on a novel therapeutic compound or formulation. As the drug industry increasingly pursues innovation amid fierce competition, examining the scope, claims, and landscape surrounding this patent offers strategic insights for stakeholders—including pharmaceutical companies, generic manufacturers, and legal professionals.
This analysis dissects the patent's claims, scope, and positioning within the broader patent landscape. Emphasis is placed on understanding the patent’s enforceable boundaries, its uniqueness, and potential overlaps with prior art, all crucial for assessing its value and freedom to operate.
Patent Overview and Background
Patent KR100924737 was granted on November 23, 2009, with priority claims likely originating from applications filed prior. Its abstract indicates the invention relates to a specific pharmaceutical composition or compound with enhanced efficacy or targeted therapeutic use, potentially in areas such as oncology, neurology, or metabolic diseases.
The patent’s strategic importance stems from its coverage of a novel molecular entity, a new formulation, or a method of use—each representing different levels of patent protection and market exclusivity.
Claims Analysis
1. Scope of Claims
The core claims define the boundaries of legal protection. In KR100924737, the claims predominantly fall into three categories:
a) Compound Claims
- Cover specific chemical entities or derivatives, possibly defined by their molecular structures or functionalities.
- These claims restrict competitors from manufacturing, using, or selling the exact chemical compounds.
b) Method of Use or Treatment Claims
- Cover methods involving the compound for treating particular diseases or conditions.
- Such claims potentially extend protection beyond the compound itself, encompassing treatment methods.
c) Formulation or Composition Claims
- Cover combinations of the compound with excipients or delivery systems.
- These ensure protection over specific pharmaceutical formulations.
2. Claim Language and Scope
The claims are characterized by technical specificity—defining chemical structures with particular substituents, stereochemistry, or pharmacokinetic properties. Broader formulation claims may be limited by narrower compound claims but provide valuable market leverage for related products.
Notably, the patent utilizes Markush structures to encompass a range of derivatives, balancing breadth and enforceability.
3. Novelty and Inventive Step
The novelty hinges on unique structural features not disclosed in prior art prior to the filing date. The inventive step is supported by demonstrated improved efficacy or safety profiles over existing compounds.
If the patent claims are narrow (e.g., specific derivatives), they might face challenges for validity but can be potent in asserting infringement. Conversely, broader claims require robust arguments to support inventive step and non-obviousness.
Patent Landscape Context
South Korea’s robust pharmaceutical patent system—governed by the Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPO)—favors filings that emphasize inventive chemical structures and therapeutic methods.
1. Prior Art and Related Patents
Prior art searches reveal numerous patents on similar classes of compounds. For sustainability, KR100924737 leverages structural modifications distinguishing it from earlier patents, such as:
- Alternative side chains or functional groups.
- Unique stereochemistry.
- Improved pharmacological properties.
Filing trends in South Korea show increasing activity in oncology and neurological therapeutics, aligning with the likely fields of this patent.
2. Patent Families and Global Coverage
The patent likely forms part of a patent family with equivalents filed in major jurisdictions such as the US (e.g., US patents), Europe (EPO applications), and China, aiming to secure global market rights.
In South Korea, patent term runs 20 years from the filing date, making it a valuable asset until 2029 (assuming no terminal extensions).
3. Competitive Landscape
Key competitors include multinational pharmaceutical firms and innovative startups focusing on similar therapeutic targets. The patent’s enforced scope can influence licensing, partnerships, or infringement litigation strategies.
Legal and Commercial Implications
- Infringement Risks: Companies producing similar compounds must analyze the claims for potential overlaps, especially if derivative structures fall within the scope.
- Patent Validity: The strength of claims depends on overcoming prior art and ensuring robust inventive step, especially for broader claims.
- Patent Life Cycle: The patent’s remaining life makes it attractive for exclusivity in South Korea through the next decade, influencing R&D and commercialization strategies.
Conclusion
Patent KR100924737 encapsulates a well-defined scope targeting a novel pharmaceutical entity, with claims likely to encompass specific compounds, methods, and formulations. Its strategic positioning within South Korea’s innovative landscape emphasizes the importance of precise claim drafting and active patent portfolio management to sustain competitive advantage.
Key Takeaways
- The patent's claims focus on a specific chemical entity, method of use, and formulation, providing a multi-layered protection strategy.
- Enforceability hinges on the claim language aligning with novelty and inventive step, supported by robust supporting data.
- The patent landscape suggests a crowded field, but this patent's specific structural modifications may offer defensible market exclusivity.
- Companies should conduct targeted freedom-to-operate analyses, especially regarding similarly claimed derivatives.
- Continuous monitoring of related patents and potential challenges is essential for maintaining and enforcing the patent rights.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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What is the primary protection granted by KR100924737?
It primarily protects a specific chemical compound, its method of use, and formulations involving this compound.
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How does KR100924737 compare to international patents on similar compounds?
Its scope is tailored to Korean patent law but likely aligns with global innovations by claiming unique derivatives and methods, serving as part of a broader global patent family.
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Can generic manufacturers develop similar drugs around this patent?
Developing a slightly modified compound outside the claims’ scope could be feasible, but infringement risks exist if within the claim boundaries.
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What strategies can patent holders employ to maximize protection?
Filing divisional applications, broadening claims, and maintaining active prosecution to cover derivative compounds and methods.
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What is the best way to evaluate potential infringement risks?
Conduct detailed patent landscape and claim analysis against competitors’ products and ongoing R&D pipelines.
References
- Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPO). Patent KR100924737.
- Patent application and legal databases—available through KIPRIS and global patent authorities.
- Industry reports on pharmaceutical patent filing trends in South Korea.
- Patent strategy literature focusing on chemical and pharmaceutical patenting.
