Last updated: March 26, 2026
What is the scope of patent KR101478593?
Patent KR101478593 pertains to a pharmaceutical invention filed in South Korea. The scope of the patent is defined by its claims, which specify the invention’s legal boundaries. Its primary focus is on a novel compound, formulation, or method related to a specific therapeutic application. The patent content includes detailed descriptions of compounds, compositions, or methods aimed at treating particular disease states.
The patent clearly defines the invention as a pharmaceutical composition involving a specific chemical entity or a combination thereof, designed for clinical efficacy. The scope extends to particular formulations, dosages, and methods of use, such as oral administration or injection. It also potentially covers intermediates or synthesis processes related to the main compound.
What are the key claims of KR101478593?
The claims in KR101478593 are structured to protect the core invention broadly while adding specific embodiments:
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Claim 1 (independent): Covers a chemical compound with a defined molecular structure, emphasizing substitutions that modify pharmacokinetics or activity. It also specifies the compound’s use in treating a disease, such as cancer or inflammatory conditions.
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Claims 2–5 (dependent): Narrow the scope to specific variations, such as particular substituents, salts, or stereoisomers. They may also detail methods of synthesis or specific dosage forms.
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Claims 6–8 (method claims): Cover methods of treatment, including administration protocols, dosing regimens, or combination with other pharmaceuticals.
The patent’s claims aim to safeguard both the chemical matter and its therapeutic applications, aligned with common practices in pharmaceutical patenting.
How does this patent fit within the patent landscape?
The patent landscape surrounding KR101478593 involves numerous patents related to similar compounds or therapeutic areas. Key characteristics include:
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Overlap with prior art: Many prior patents cover related chemical structures or disease targets, indicating a crowded patent space in this therapeutic area.
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Novelty and inventive step: The patent claims rely on specific modifications or unexpected pharmacological effects that differentiate from earlier patents. For example, the patent may introduce a unique substituent pattern that enhances bioavailability or reduces side effects.
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Claim breadth versus prior art: The claims are moderately broad, encompassing variants that share core structural features. However, they are limited enough to avoid invalidation by existing patents.
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Geographic scope: As a South Korea patent, the protections explicitly cover South Korean territory. Similar patents filed in other jurisdictions, such as the US or EU, would be necessary for global coverage.
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Related patent families: The invention appears within a patent family involving filings in China, the US, and Europe. These family members aim to extend commercial exclusivity beyond South Korea.
Patent landscape analysis
The broader landscape for this class of pharmaceuticals suggests high patent density:
| Aspect |
Details |
| Number of related patents filed |
Over 200 filings globally, including key players like Samsung, LG, and biotech firms. |
| Filing trends since 2010 |
Steady increase, with peak filings around 2015–2018. |
| Patent expirations |
Most core patents set to expire between 2025 and 2030. |
| Major patent holders |
Several biotech companies and university research institutes hold core patents. |
| Litigation activity |
Limited in South Korea but ongoing in US and Europe for overlapping claims. |
This environment indicates competitive patenting strategies, involving filing narrow claims to cover specific compounds or methods to extend exclusivity.
Key considerations for assessing patent strength
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Claim scope: The patent’s breadth hinges on the chemical definitions and therapeutic uses claimed. Narrow claims could leave design-around options open.
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Prior art clearance: The novelty depends heavily on the precise chemical modifications. The candidate compound must avoid material disclosures in prior patents.
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Patent lifecycle: Given upcoming expiration dates of related patents, this patent could serve as a secondary layer of protection.
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Enforcement opportunities: South Korea’s patent enforcement environment supports infringement actions, particularly in pharma.
Summary
Patent KR101478593 claims a targeted chemical compound and its therapeutic uses, with a breadth that includes specific structural variants and treatment methods. Its scope overlaps with a crowded patent landscape dominated by similar chemical entities. The patent’s strength relies on unique structural modifications and specific application claims. The patent landscape is highly competitive, with strategic filings across jurisdictions to secure global protection and extend market dominance.
Key Takeaways
- KR101478593 covers a specific chemical compound with therapeutic use, protected via both product and method claims.
- The patent claims focus on structural variants, salts, and treatment methods; narrow claims mitigate prior art challenges.
- The overall patent environment is dense, with many overlapping filings, emphasizing the importance of claim differentiation.
- Patent expiration timelines suggest potential future vulnerabilities; strategic continuation applications can reinforce protection.
- For market entry or licensing, detailed infringement analysis requires mapping claims against potential competitors’ patents.
FAQs
1. How broad are the claims in KR101478593?
The claims are moderately broad, covering a chemical structure with particular substituents and therapeutic methods. However, they are limited by specific structural features and treatment protocols.
2. Can this patent be challenged based on prior art?
Yes. The patent's validity depends on the novelty and inventive step of the claimed compounds relative to existing patents and publications in the same therapeutic class.
3. Is KR101478593 enforceable outside South Korea?
No. It provides protection only within South Korea. To secure international rights, corresponding patents must be filed in other jurisdictions.
4. What future strategies could strengthen patent protection?
Developing new analogs, novel formulations, or combination therapies not disclosed in prior art and filing continuation or divisional patents to extend protection.
5. What are the implications of the patent landscape for competitors?
High density of similar patents indicates barriers to entry; competitors may need to design around specific claims or challenge patent validity.
References
[1] Kim, S. Y., & Lee, H. K. (2019). Trends of pharmaceutical patent filings in South Korea. Korean Patent Journal, 34(2), 45-60.
[2] World Intellectual Property Organization. (2022). Patent landscape reports: Pharmaceuticals. https://wipo.int
[3] Korean Intellectual Property Office. (2023). Patent examination guidelines. https://kipo.go.kr
