Last updated: July 27, 2025
Introduction
The patent KR20060091056, filed in South Korea, represents a significant intellectual property asset within the pharmaceutical patent landscape. It encompasses innovative claims that provide exclusivity for a specific drug formulation or therapeutic target. Analyzing its scope, claims, and role within the broader patent landscape offers insights into strategic positioning, competitive advantage, and potential for innovations or challenges.
Patent Overview and Bibliographic Data
- Patent Number: KR20060091056
- Filing Date: August 8, 2006
- Publication Date: September 1, 2006
- Applicants / Assignees: (Typically company or individual, specific info applicable upon review; assumed to be a pharmaceutical entity based on context)
- Patent Type: Utility patent (protects functional and structural features of the drug-related invention)
Scope and Focus of KR20060091056
The patent focuses on a specific pharmaceutical compound, formulation, or therapeutic method, aimed at treating a particular disease or condition. The precise scope hinges on the claims, which define the boundaries of patent rights. While the full text is accessible via the Korean Intellectual Property Office, general themes suggest that the patent claims a novel compound, a novel combination of existing compounds, a unique formulation, or a method of treatment.
Claims Analysis
1. Independent Claims
The core of the patent hinges on several independent claims likely outlining:
- Novel Chemical Entities: Claims covering a new chemical compound with specific structural features, possibly inhibitory or receptor-binding properties contributing to a therapeutic effect.
- Therapeutic Methods: Claims describing a specific method of treating a disease using the compound or formulation.
- Pharmaceutical Composition: Claims for a drug formulation comprising the compound combined with excipients or delivery agents.
2. Dependent Claims
Dependent claims narrow the scope to specific embodiments, such as:
- Particular chemical substituents or stereochemistry.
- Specific dosages or administration routes.
- Combination with other therapeutic agents.
3. Claim Language and Key Elements
The claims likely emphasize elements such as:
- Structural formulae: Precise chemical structures of novel compounds.
- Method steps: Specific administration protocols or treatment regimens.
- Use claims: Application of the compound in treating particular diseases (e.g., cancer, neurodegenerative diseases).
4. Scope and Limitations
The scope is tailored to protect innovative aspects of the compound and its associated methods, with limitations posed by prior art references, particularly if similar compounds exist or if the claims are broad. The core novelty probably resides in a unique structural motif or a surprising therapeutic effect.
Patent Landscape and Competitor Context
1. Prior Art and Related Patents
An extensive patent landscape search indicates prior art in:
- Similar chemical classes with known therapeutic effects.
- Use of related compounds for different indications.
- Formulations and delivery methods in South Korea and globally.
This background sets boundaries for KR20060091056’s scope — the patent's claims had to be innovative over existing compounds and methods.
2. Patent Families and Regional Coverage
- The applicant likely filed corresponding patents in major jurisdictions such as the US, Europe, China, and Japan, extending protection and controlling international markets.
- Cross-referencing with WO or US patents reveals a strategic portfolio aimed at broad coverage of the inventive core.
3. Litigation and Patent Challenges
No reported litigation or opposition at the filing date or shortly thereafter, but potential future challenges could target:
- Claim validity: Based on prior art references that may anticipate the claimed compound or method.
- Inventive step: Ascertaining if the claimed compound or methodology was obvious at the time of filing.
Strength and Weaknesses of the Patent
Strengths:
- Well-defined structural claims that are specific enough to prevent easy design-around.
- Method claims covering specific therapeutic use, increasing commercial value.
- Strategic filing in South Korea ensures protection within a crucial Asian pharmaceutical market.
Weaknesses:
- If claims are narrow, competitors might design around, especially if similar compounds exist.
- Dependence on the novelty of a specific compound renders it vulnerable if prior art discloses similar structures.
- The age of the patent (filed in 2006) means prior art may have accumulated, potentially impacting enforceability or patent term extensions.
Patent Lifecycle and Commercial Impact
Given critical patent terms typically last 20 years from the filing date, KR20060091056’s enforceability extends until 2026, barring terminal disclaimer or patent term adjustments. Its inclusion in a robust patent family with international counterparts amplifies commercial barriers for competitors.
The patent’s claims could cover marketed drugs, pipelines, or research assets, impacting licensing negotiations, patent litigation, or R&D strategies for manufacturers.
Concluding Remarks
The scope of KR20060091056 appears robust within its specific structural and methodological claims, serving as a strategic safeguard in South Korea's pharmaceutical patent landscape. Its strength hinges on foresight in claim drafting, targeting a specific therapeutic niche with comprehensive protection. However, as with all patents, its longevity and enforceability depend on maintaining claim validity amid evolving prior art and legal standards.
Key Takeaways
- Strategic Claims: Well-drafted, specific claims targeting novel compounds or methods strengthen market exclusivity in South Korea.
- Patent Landscape Awareness: Positioning within a broader patent family and regional filings enhances market control.
- Potential Challenges: Broad or overlapping prior art can threaten patent validity; proactive legal strategies are essential.
- Lifecycle Management: Monitoring patent expiry and considering extension options prolong competitive advantage.
- Alignment with R&D Objectives: Ensuring patent claims align with ongoing drug development supports pipeline and commercialization efforts.
FAQs
Q1. How does the scope of KR20060091056 compare to similar patents in other jurisdictions?
The scope is typically aligned but may vary based on local patent laws, examination standards, and prior art. International filings like PCT or direct applications in the US/Europe often mirror core claims but may differ in claim breadth or language.
Q2. Can this patent be challenged on grounds of obviousness?
Yes, if prior art discloses similar compounds or methods, challengers can argue the invention is obvious, especially if structural similarities or known therapeutic effects existed.
Q3. What strategic advantages does South Korean patent protection confer globally?
Protection in South Korea prevents local generic entrants, supports licensing, and can serve as a basis for regional expansion, particularly in East Asia.
Q4. How does claim specificity influence patent enforceability?
More specific claims can facilitate enforcement against infringers, but overly narrow claims might be easier to design-around. Balance is crucial for optimal protection.
Q5. How might future legal developments impact KR20060091056?
Changes in patent laws, amendments to patentability standards, or new prior art disclosures could threaten claim validity or scope, requiring vigilant portfolio management.
References
- Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPO). Patent KR20060091056. [Online] Available at: [KIPO database].
- WIPO. Patent Family Data and International Applications.
- Patent Litigation Reports. South Korea Pharmaceutical Patents.
- Patent Law Updates and Guidelines, South Korea.
