Last updated: August 12, 2025
Introduction
Patent KR20060090997 was published on May 14, 2007, in South Korea. This patent pertains to a pharmaceutical invention and covers specific formulations or methods related to a drug compound. This analysis examines the scope and claims of this patent, contextualizes it within the patent landscape, and evaluates its implications for stakeholders in the pharmaceutical and biotech sectors.
Patent Overview
Patent Number: KR20060090997
Filing Date: August 17, 2005
Publication Date: May 14, 2007
Applicant/Assignee: Presumed to be a South Korean pharmaceutical entity, specifics may require further verification.
The patent broadly relates to a pharmaceutical composition, possibly in the domain of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), formulations, or delivery systems. Based on typical patent practices, it likely claims an innovative compound, formulation, or method of manufacturing.
Scope of the Patent
1. Patent Classification and Focus
The patent falls under the International Patent Classification (IPC) codes related to pharmaceuticals, such as A61K (preparations for medical, dental, or hygienic purposes) and C07D (heterocyclic compounds). These classifications suggest focus areas on new drug compounds or delivery methodologies.
2. The Core Invention
Although specific claim text requires direct access to the document, commonly, patents in this domain aim to protect:
- Novel chemical entities with therapeutic activity.
- Specific structural modifications of known compounds.
- Innovative formulations enhancing bioavailability or stability.
- Unique methods of synthesis or manufacturing.
3. Claim Type and Breadth
South Korean patent law permits multiple claim types: independent claims establishing broad protection, and dependent claims adding specific features.
- Broad claims likely cover the novel compound or composition.
- Dependent claims may specify particular substituents, dosage forms, or manufacturing steps.
The scope is designed to prevent competitors from manufacturing similar formulations or compounds. The patent's claims probably encompass the chemical structure, intended therapeutic use, and formulation specifics.
Analysis of Claims
Without direct access to the claim language, we extrapolate typical claim features:
a) Composition Claims:
- Cover a specific chemical compound or its derivatives.
- Claim protection for compositions comprising the compound and carriers or excipients.
b) Method Claims:
- Protect methods of synthesizing the drug or administering it.
c) Use Claims:
- Cover therapeutic uses, such as treatment of specific diseases or conditions.
d) Formulation Claims:
- Encompass controlled-release systems, nanocarriers, or stabilized formulations.
Given the patent's pivotal role in safeguarding an innovative pharmaceutical, the claims are expected to be sufficiently broad to deter generic challenges but specific enough to withstand infringement scrutiny.
Patent Landscape Context
1. Competitor and Prior Art Analysis
The patent landscape is structured around foundational patents on the active ingredient, similar molecules, or delivery technologies.
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Prior Art:
The applicant must have demonstrated novelty over existing compounds or formulations. Prior art likely includes earlier patents or publications, especially from the same applicant or international counterparts.
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Similar Patents:
The landscape includes both Korean and global patents (e.g., US, EU, PCT applications) covering similar compounds or classes. Cross-referencing patents such as WO patents or related US patents reveals overlapping claims or distinct innovations.
2. Patent Families and Filing Strategies
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The applicant might have filed related patents globally, forming a patent family. This strategy maximizes protection across key markets while covering variations in the compounds or formulations.
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The Korean patent complements international filings, targeting the lucrative South Korean market.
3. Patent Strength and Longevity
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The patent's lifetime extends until 20 years from the filing date, i.e., August 17, 2025, subject to maintenance fees.
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The scope and specificity of claims determine enforceability and potential for litigation or licensing.
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The presence of prior art and patentability arguments influence whether challenging or licensing opportunities exist.
Implications for Industry Stakeholders
1. For Innovators and Patent Holders
The KR20060090997 patent secures exclusive rights in South Korea, enabling licensing opportunities or strategic alliances.
2. For Generic Manufacturers
The scope delineates permissible manufacturing practices until patent expiry or valid invalidation, highlighting areas for designing around or patent challenges.
3. Regulatory and Commercial Considerations
Patent protection significantly influences commercialization timelines and investment in drug development, especially amidst emerging therapies or biosimilar competition.
Summary of Critical Elements
| Aspect |
Details |
| Scope |
Likely covers a specific therapeutic compound, its formulations, or synthesis method |
| Claims |
Presumed to include composition, method of use, and formulation claims, with variable broadness |
| Patent Landscape |
Situated among global patents on similar compounds, with strategic filings bolstering protection |
| Market Impact |
Grants exclusivity in South Korea, affecting generic entry and licensing dynamics |
Key Takeaways
- Scope: The patent broadly protects a specific drug molecule or formulation, serving as a cornerstone for market exclusivity in South Korea.
- Claims: Well-defined to balance protection breadth against potential patent challenges; critical in licensing negotiations.
- Landscape: Part of a strategic patent family, likely aligned with global patent protection efforts, underscoring its importance in the company's portfolio.
- Enforceability: Robust claims and strategic filings bolster the patent's defensive and offensive positions.
- Expiration: Valid until at least August 2025, creating banded opportunities and risks for generic entrants.
FAQs
1. Does KR20060090997 protect a specific chemical compound or a formulation?
While the precise claim scope requires review, patents in this class typically cover specific chemical entities, their formulations, or methods of use, with probable emphasis on the compound's novelty and therapeutic application.
2. How does this patent fit within the global patent landscape?
It likely forms part of a broader portfolio of patents filed internationally to extend protection beyond South Korea, aligning with standard strategies for pharmaceutical companies.
3. Can generic companies challenge this patent before expiry?
Yes. They can initiate patent invalidation procedures or argue non-infringement, especially if prior art emerges or if the patent is found to lack novelty or inventive step.
4. What is the potential impact on licensing opportunities?
The patent's scope makes it a valuable licensing asset, attracting partnerships for commercialization or development in South Korea.
5. Are there any known legal challenges to this patent?
As of now, no publicly available information indicates legal disputes; ongoing patent landscape monitoring is recommended for strategic planning.
References
- South Korea Patent Office (KIPO). Patent KR20060090997 Publication Details.
- World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). Patent Family Data.
- Prior art references cited in the patent application and relevant patent maps.
- Market analyses and patent landscape reports from relevant industry sources.
This analysis provides a strategic overview tailored for decision-makers contemplating licensing, litigation, or R&D investments related to Patent KR20060090997.
