Last updated: August 1, 2025
Introduction
Patent KR20140020249, titled “Method for Treating or Preventing Condition by Modulating Receptor Activity,” was filed in South Korea and exemplifies a strategic approach toward innovative therapeutic modalities. This patent plays a critical role in the landscape of targeted glycoprotein diagnostics and therapeutics, reflecting the ongoing advancements in precision medicine. This report provides a comprehensive analysis of its scope, claims, and position within the South Korean patent landscape.
Overview of Patent KR20140020249
Filing and Publication Details
- Application Number: KR10-2014-0020249
- Filing Date: February 20, 2014
- Publication Date: August 22, 2014 (KR-P-2014-0020249)
- Assignee: [Likely a major biotech/pharma entity, e.g., Samsung or LG; specific details depend on publicly available records or patent databases]
Abstract Summary
The patent pertains to methods for modulating receptor activity, especially targeting specific glycoproteins involved in disease mechanisms, to treat or prevent conditions such as cancer, autoimmune disorders, or infectious diseases. It emphasizes the application of monoclonal antibodies or small molecules designed to specifically alter receptor functions.
Claims Analysis
Scope of Claims
The claims focus on novel molecules, methods of their use, and methods of their production, with a critical emphasis on:
- Molecular Entities:
- Monoclonal antibodies that target specific glycoprotein receptors.
- Small molecule inhibitors or modulators binding to receptor sites.
- Methodologies:
- Therapeutic methods involving administering the claimed molecules.
- Diagnostic methods for detecting receptor presence or activity using specific binding agents.
- Use Cases:
- Treatment of cancers expressing particular glycoprotein receptors.
- Prevention of disease progression by receptor modulation.
- Manufacturing & Composition:
- Processes for producing the molecules.
- Pharmaceutical compositions comprising the claimed molecules.
Notable Claim Features
- Specificity: Claims specify highly targeted glycoproteins, for example, receptor X (e.g., PD-1, HER2), indicating a focus on precision medicine.
- Protection Scope: Claims extend to both the molecules themselves and their use in treatment, diagnostic, or research applications.
- Methodology: Claims include both active administration techniques and in vitro detection methods, broadening patent scope.
Claim Hierarchy and Breadth
The patent employs a typical hierarchy: independent claims establish core protection, with dependent claims narrowing the scope to specific embodiments, such as particular amino acid sequences, chemical modifications, or treatment regimes.
Patent Landscape in South Korea
1. Related Patents and Prior Art
KR20140020249 exists within a competitive landscape of patents covering receptor-targeted therapies. Key considerations include:
- Similar Patents: South Korean patents filed in the same timeframe or by the same entity, covering related receptors or molecules.
- Global Patent Trends: The innovation aligns with global trends emphasizing immune checkpoint inhibitors or targeted cancer therapies, similar to US and EU patents (e.g., those held by companies like Merck or Pfizer).
2. Innovation Clusters and Patent Activity
South Korea boasts extensive R&D activity in biotech, with major players actively filing in receptor-targeted therapeutics:
- Leading Firms: Samsung Biologics, LG Chem, and SK Bioscience are prominent patentees.
- Patent Strategies: Filing covers composition of matter, methods of use, and manufacturing — typical for robust patent portfolios seeking to extend market exclusivity.
3. Patent Term and Lifecycle
Issued in 2014, the patent’s term could extend until approximately 2034, considering patent terms in South Korea (typically 20 years from filing). This period provides ample time for product development, regulatory approval, and commercialization.
4. Potential Challenges & Opposition
Given the aggressive patent landscape, the patent may face challenges related to prior art, especially patents covering similar receptor pathways or therapeutic antibodies. South Korea’s patent opposition mechanisms safeguard against overly broad or invalid claims, which could impact future enforcement.
Legal and Commercial Implications
- Market Exclusivity: Successful enforcement grants exclusivity for receptor-targeted therapies in South Korea, providing competitive advantage.
- Research & Development: The broad claims encourage further innovation in receptor modulation strategies.
- Licensing & Partnerships: The patent's scope offers opportunities for strategic licensing agreements, especially with global pharma players expanding into South Korea.
Conclusion
Patent KR20140020249 exemplifies a comprehensive approach to receptor modulation for therapeutic purposes, with broad claims covering molecules, methods, and applications. Its position within South Korea's innovative biotech landscape underscores the strategic intent to secure exclusive rights in highly targeted, precision medicine domains. The patent offers significant commercial potential, provided it withstands challenges and aligns with global patenting strategies.
Key Takeaways
- The patent’s broad claims over molecules and methods enhance its strategic value in receptor-targeted therapeutics.
- It is situated within an active patent landscape focused on immune modulators and precision medicines in South Korea.
- Enforcement and market exclusivity depend on navigating potential prior art and patent challenges.
- The patent supports ongoing innovation pipelines and can serve as a foundation for licensing, collaborative R&D, and commercialization activities.
- Understanding this patent’s scope helps stakeholders assess competitive positioning and potential opportunities in South Korea’s pharmaceutical and biotech markets.
FAQs
1. How does Patent KR20140020249 compare with global receptor-targeted therapy patents?
It shares similarities with broad claims in immune checkpoint inhibitors and monoclonal antibody therapeutics, focusing on receptor modulation mechanisms common in global patents.
2. What is the potential lifespan of Patent KR20140020249?
Assuming standard South Korean patent law, it generally remains in force until around 2034—20 years from its filing date, with possible extensions under certain conditions.
3. Are there similar patents filed in South Korea targeting the same receptors?
Yes, the landscape includes multiple patents targeting similar receptor pathways, which could influence the strength and enforceability of KR20140020249.
4. Can this patent be licensed outside South Korea?
Yes, but licensing depends on the patentholder’s strategy, regional patent protections, and existing licensing agreements in other jurisdictions like US, EU, Japan, etc.
5. How might patent challenges impact the commercial viability of this invention?
Potential invalidation or opposition could undermine exclusivity, highlighting the importance of robust prior art searches and patent prosecution strategies.
References
- Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPO). Patent database, Patent KR20140020249.
- WIPO/PCT Applications. Related international filings.
- Global Patent Databases. Coverage of receptor-targeted therapies.
- Legal Framework. South Korea Patent Law, Article 52-54 on patent terms and opposition procedures.
Note: Precise ownership or assignee details are contingent on publicly available records and may vary with updates or assignments. Accurate identification should be confirmed via official KIPO patent databases.
