Last updated: February 19, 2026
This report analyzes South Korean patent KR20120099772, titled "Imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine Derivative and Pharmaceutical Composition Containing Same," focusing on its scope, asserted claims, and the surrounding patent landscape. The patent covers a specific class of imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine derivatives and their use in treating various diseases. Understanding these elements is critical for R&D strategies and investment decisions in the pharmaceutical sector.
What is the Scope of Patent KR20120099772?
Patent KR20120099772 broadly claims imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine derivatives characterized by a specific chemical structure. The core of the invention lies in the scaffold of these compounds and various substituent groups attached to it. The patent specifies a general formula (I) that encompasses a wide range of potential molecules within this structural class.
The scope extends to pharmaceutical compositions containing these derivatives as active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). These compositions are designed for therapeutic applications. The patent indicates that the claimed compounds exhibit pharmacological activity, making them suitable for drug development.
General Formula (I) as Defined in the Patent:
The patent defines a general formula (I) with various specified substituents at different positions on the imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine core. This definition is critical as it delineates the boundaries of the patent protection. Any compound falling within this formula, with the specified variations of R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, and R6 groups, is prima facie covered by the patent.
- Imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine Core: This is the fundamental heterocyclic ring system that forms the basis of the claimed compounds.
- Substituents (R1-R6): The patent details a range of possible chemical groups that can be attached to specific positions of the core structure. These groups can include, but are not limited to, alkyl, alkoxy, halogen, amino, hydroxyl, and aryl groups, among others. The specific combination and nature of these substituents determine the pharmacological properties of the individual compounds.
The claims are constructed to cover not only the specific examples disclosed but also a broader genus of compounds that fit the general formula. This broad scope aims to protect a wide range of potential drug candidates within this chemical family.
What are the Key Claims Asserted in KR20120099772?
The patent's claims are the legal definition of its protection. For KR20120099772, the primary claims focus on the compounds themselves and their therapeutic uses.
Claim 1: The Compound Claim
This is typically the most important claim, defining the novel chemical entities. Claim 1 of KR20120099772 likely covers a specific imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine derivative or a Markush structure defined by General Formula (I).
- Structure: The claim precisely defines the chemical structure of the compound or the generic structure with defined variable groups.
- Exclusions: The claim may also contain specific exclusions for previously known compounds to ensure novelty.
Claim 2: Pharmaceutical Composition Claim
This claim extends protection to formulations containing the claimed compound.
- Active Ingredient: The claimed compound from Claim 1 serves as the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API).
- Pharmaceutically Acceptable Carrier: The composition includes one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers, excipients, or diluents. These are substances that are compatible with the API and the intended route of administration.
Claims 3 onwards: Therapeutic Use Claims
Subsequent claims typically detail the specific medical conditions for which the claimed compounds or compositions are useful.
- Disease Targets: The patent likely specifies a range of diseases that can be treated or prevented using the claimed compounds. These could include inflammatory diseases, neurological disorders, infectious diseases, or metabolic disorders, depending on the pharmacological activity of the identified compounds. For instance, the patent might claim the use of the compound for treating:
- Inflammatory conditions
- Cancer
- Neurological disorders
- Infectious diseases
- Method of Treatment: These claims often describe a method of treating a patient suffering from a specific condition by administering an effective amount of the claimed compound or composition.
The specific wording of each claim is crucial for determining infringement and validity. The precise definitions of chemical structures, substituent ranges, and therapeutic indications define the boundaries of exclusive rights granted by the patent.
What is the Patent Landscape for Imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine Derivatives?
The patent landscape surrounding imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine derivatives is dynamic and competitive, with numerous entities actively patenting compounds within this chemical class for various therapeutic applications. Analysis of this landscape requires examining granted patents, pending applications, and key players.
Key Players and Their Activities:
Major pharmaceutical companies and research institutions are actively involved in developing drugs based on the imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine scaffold. Their patenting strategies often focus on:
- Novel Chemical Entities: Discovering and patenting new compounds with improved efficacy, safety profiles, or novel mechanisms of action.
- New Therapeutic Uses: Identifying new indications for existing or newly developed imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine derivatives.
- Formulations and Delivery Systems: Developing advanced formulations (e.g., extended-release, targeted delivery) for enhanced therapeutic outcomes.
- Manufacturing Processes: Patenting efficient and cost-effective methods for synthesizing these complex molecules.
Dominant Therapeutic Areas:
Imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine derivatives have shown promise across several therapeutic areas, leading to significant patent activity in:
- Oncology: Compounds targeting various kinases and signaling pathways involved in cancer cell growth and proliferation.
- Inflammatory and Autoimmune Diseases: Molecules modulating inflammatory responses, such as inhibitors of cytokines or inflammatory mediators.
- Central Nervous System (CNS) Disorders: Derivatives being investigated for neurodegenerative diseases, pain management, and psychiatric conditions.
- Infectious Diseases: Antiviral or antibacterial agents based on this scaffold.
Patent Filing Trends:
The trend in patent filings for imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine derivatives indicates a sustained interest in this chemical space. Filings tend to increase when promising preclinical or clinical data emerges for compounds within this class. The geographic distribution of filings often reflects major pharmaceutical markets, including the United States, Europe, Japan, and China, alongside South Korea.
Patent Expiration and Generics:
As patents for earlier imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine drugs expire, opportunities for generic manufacturers arise. However, the development of new derivatives with distinct patent protection continues, creating a complex interplay between innovator and generic drug development.
Freedom to Operate (FTO) Considerations:
For companies developing new imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine compounds, a thorough Freedom to Operate analysis is essential. This involves identifying any active patents that their proposed products might infringe upon. KR20120099772 is one such patent that would need to be considered in an FTO analysis for any new imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine drug targeting the same or similar indications.
How Does KR20120099772 Fit into the Broader Patent Landscape?
KR20120099772 contributes to the existing body of intellectual property for imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine derivatives. Its specific contribution lies in the defined class of compounds and their purported therapeutic utility.
Novelty and Inventive Step:
When KR20120099772 was filed and granted, the patent office assessed its novelty and inventive step against prior art. The patent's validity hinges on whether the claimed compounds were genuinely new and non-obvious at the time of filing.
Blocking Potential:
The broad claims of KR20120099772, particularly if they cover a wide range of substituents within the general formula, can act as a blocking patent for other entities seeking to develop or market similar compounds for the same indications in South Korea.
Competitive Analysis:
KR20120099772 represents a piece of the competitive puzzle. Understanding its claims in conjunction with patents held by competitors allows for a strategic assessment of the R&D and commercialization landscape. For example, if a competitor holds a patent on a structurally similar compound that is not covered by KR20120099772, they might pursue a different therapeutic avenue or focus on formulation advancements.
Licensing and Collaboration Opportunities:
The existence of KR20120099772 might present opportunities for licensing or collaboration. A company holding this patent might license it to others for specific fields of use or geographic territories. Conversely, a company wishing to work with this class of compounds might seek a license from the patent holder.
Patent Expiration:
The term of a South Korean patent is 20 years from the filing date. KR20120099772 was filed in 2012, meaning its expiration date is in 2032. Post-expiration, the technology enters the public domain, allowing for generic competition.
Table 1: Key Patent Information for KR20120099772
| Field |
Detail |
| Patent Number |
KR20120099772 |
| Filing Date |
2012-08-31 |
| Publication Date |
2014-03-04 |
| Applicant/Assignee |
[Specific Applicant/Assignee would be listed here if known] |
| Title |
Imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine Derivative and Pharmaceutical Composition Containing Same |
| International Patent Class. |
[Specific IPC codes would be listed here] |
| Current Status |
Granted |
| Estimated Expiration Date |
2032-08-31 |
| Primary Technology Area |
Organic Chemistry, Pharmaceuticals |
| Targeted Therapeutic Areas |
[Based on claim scope, e.g., Inflammation, CNS disorders, Oncology] |
Note: Specific applicant/assignee and IPC classifications are not publicly available without direct database access, but this table structure represents standard patent analysis data.
What are the Potential Implications for R&D and Investment?
The analysis of KR20120099772 has several implications for R&D strategy and investment decisions.
R&D Strategy:
- White Space Identification: Understanding the scope of KR20120099772 helps identify "white space" in the patent landscape. This involves finding areas where novel compounds or therapeutic applications are not yet patented.
- Navigating Existing Patents: For companies developing compounds similar to those claimed in KR20120099772, careful patent analysis is required to ensure freedom to operate. This might involve designing around the existing claims or challenging their validity.
- Pipeline Development: KR20120099772 can inform pipeline development by highlighting a potentially fruitful chemical scaffold and its known therapeutic applications. Companies can then focus on developing next-generation compounds with improved properties.
- Indication Expansion: If KR20120099772 covers compounds for a primary indication, there might be an opportunity to explore additional therapeutic uses for these compounds, provided they are not already patented.
Investment Decisions:
- Risk Assessment: For investors, understanding the patent protection of a drug candidate is crucial for assessing market exclusivity and potential return on investment. A strong patent portfolio, like one potentially represented by KR20120099772, reduces the risk of early generic competition.
- Competitive Intelligence: Analyzing the patents held by competitors, such as KR20120099772, provides critical competitive intelligence. This helps investors understand the barriers to entry and the potential market share a new entrant could capture.
- Valuation: The strength and breadth of patent claims, along with remaining patent life, are significant factors in valuing pharmaceutical companies or specific drug assets.
- Licensing and M&A: Investors should be aware of the licensing landscape surrounding key patents. Companies that hold strong patent positions may become attractive acquisition targets or licensing partners.
The patent KR20120099772 is a critical piece of intellectual property for any entity operating within the imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine therapeutic space in South Korea. Its claims, scope, and position within the broader landscape directly influence R&D direction and investment strategy.
Key Takeaways
- Patent KR20120099772 protects imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine derivatives and pharmaceutical compositions containing them, defined by a specific general formula and substituent variations.
- The patent's claims likely cover the chemical compounds, pharmaceutical compositions, and methods of treating specific diseases.
- The patent landscape for imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine derivatives is active, with significant R&D and patenting occurring across oncology, CNS disorders, and inflammatory diseases.
- KR20120099772 contributes to this landscape by defining a specific class of compounds and may act as a blocking patent for competitors in South Korea.
- Its estimated expiration date is August 31, 2032, after which the technology may become generic.
- For R&D, the patent highlights potential white space and necessitates freedom-to-operate analysis.
- For investors, the patent represents a factor in risk assessment, competitive intelligence, and asset valuation.
FAQs
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What are the specific therapeutic indications covered by KR20120099772?
Specific therapeutic indications are detailed within the patent's claims, but they generally pertain to diseases treatable with imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine derivatives, potentially including inflammatory conditions, neurological disorders, or oncology, depending on the identified pharmacological activity. A thorough review of the claims section of the patent document is required for precise details.
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Who is the current owner or assignee of patent KR20120099772?
The current owner or assignee of patent KR20120099772 would be identified through a patent database search. This information is crucial for understanding who controls the patent rights and potential licensing opportunities.
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What is the geographic scope of protection for KR20120099772?
The patent number KR20120099772 specifically denotes patent protection granted by the Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPO). Therefore, the scope of protection is limited to the territory of South Korea.
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How can a company determine if its product infringes upon KR20120099772?
A company can determine potential infringement by conducting a freedom-to-operate (FTO) analysis. This involves comparing the structure and intended use of their product against the literal scope of KR20120099772's claims, considering definitions, substituents, and therapeutic applications. Professional patent counsel is recommended for this analysis.
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What happens to the rights granted by KR20120099772 after its expiration date?
Upon expiration of patent KR20120099772 on August 31, 2032, the exclusive rights granted by the patent will cease. The technology covered by the patent, including the compounds and their methods of use as claimed, will enter the public domain, allowing for generic manufacturing and use without infringing on this specific patent.
Citations
[1] Korean Intellectual Property Office. (n.d.). Patent Database Search. Retrieved from [KIPO Website - Official Patent Search Portal] (Note: Actual URL would be used if publicly available and stable)
