Last updated: November 4, 2025
Introduction
South Korean patent KR20150063587 pertains to advancements in pharmaceutical compositions and methods aimed at treating specific medical conditions. As the pharmaceutical industry becomes increasingly competitive, understanding the scope and claims of such patents is vital for stakeholders—from research organizations to commercial entities—to navigate patent landscapes effectively. This analysis examines the patent’s scope, claims, and its position within the broader patent environment, offering comprehensive insights for strategic decision-making.
Patent Overview and Technical Field
Patents in South Korea are governed under the Patent Act and are classified under the Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPO). KR20150063587 was filed with the objective of securing exclusive rights over specific drug compositions or treatment methods. This patent likely belongs to the technical field of pharmacology, possibly focusing on novel compounds, formulations, or therapeutic methods.
Based on the patent number and typical filings, the patent likely aims at protecting a novel pharmaceutical composition—potentially targeting a disease such as cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, or metabolic syndromes—by featuring specific active ingredients, delivery systems, or combination therapies.
Scope of the Patent
The scope broadly defines the boundary of patent protection, including the system, method, or composition protected. For KR20150063587, the scope encompasses:
- Pharmaceutical compositions: Comprising specific active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) or combinations thereof.
- Method of treatment: Novel therapeutic methods for treating particular diseases.
- Delivery systems: Innovative formulations or drug delivery mechanisms enhancing efficacy or bioavailability.
- Dosage forms: Specific dosages, ratios, or manufacturing processes.
The scope of this patent is likely detailed in the claims sections, focusing on novel aspects that distinguish it from prior art, including particular chemical structures, manufacturing processes, or treatment modalities.
Patent Claims Analysis
The claims define the legal boundaries of the patent rights and are categorized generally into independent and dependent claims:
1. Independent Claims
Typically, independent claims provide the broadest protection. For KR20150063587, these likely describe:
- A pharmaceutical composition comprising a specific active compound with unique structural features.
- A method of treating a disease characterized by administering a particular dose, formulation, or delivery system.
- A novel combination therapy involving the active ingredient and other therapeutic agents.
The independent claims aim to cover the core inventive concept, potentially including:
- Chemical formulae: Precise molecular structures with particular substituents.
- Methods of preparation: Specific steps used to synthesize the compounds.
- Treatment protocols: Unique dosing regimens or administration routes.
2. Dependent Claims
Dependent claims narrow the scope, providing specific embodiments or alternative forms. They may specify:
- Particular derivatives of the active compound.
- Embodiments tailored for specific patient populations.
- Additional ingredients that synergize with the main active ingredient.
- Variations in the formulation process (e.g., nanocarriers, sustained-release systems).
Claim Language and Scope
The precise language used in claiming the invention influences enforceability and scope. Typically, claims that are sufficiently broad protect against minor modifications by competitors, whereas narrower claims can reinforce patent strength for specific embodiments.
For KR20150063587, the claims likely articulate a specific chemical compound or class, method of use, and potentially a manufacturing process, all designed to establish a comprehensive patent shield.
Patent Landscape Context
Understanding KR20150063587’s patent landscape involves examining prior art, related patents, and potential alternatives:
1. Prior Art Analysis
- Chemical Prior Art: Similar compounds with anti-inflammatory, anticancer, or neuroprotective activity likely exist. Distinguishing features involve new substituents or stereochemistry.
- Methodological Prior Art: Existing treatment arrangements employing comparable administration protocols or delivery methods.
- Formulation Art: Prior compositions with similar pharmacokinetic profiles.
KR20150063587’s novelty hinges on specific features in composition or method not disclosed in these prior references.
2. Related Patent Families
Patent families around this patent might include:
- Similar compounds patented internationally or in other jurisdictions.
- Development of combination therapies involving the claimed compound.
- Alternative delivery systems or formulations targeting the same therapeutic area.
The patent filing’s priority date and publication status impact patentability and the scope of protection in different markets.
3. Patent Assertion and Infringement Risks
Stakeholders should scrutinize potential overlaps with existing patents, especially in regions where counterpart patents exist. As South Korea is a significant pharmaceutical market, freedom-to-operate analyses are critical. The patent’s robustness can be gauged by its claims diversity and the novelty of the features claimed.
Strategic Implications
Effective use of KR20150063587 requires understanding its protection scope relative to emerging competitors and ongoing research:
- For Innovators: The patent may serve as a blockade in the Korean market, necessitating design-around strategies or licensing negotiations.
- For Competitors: Detailed claim analysis can provide insights into designing around or challenging the patent through invalidation proceedings.
- For Patent Owners: Strengthening the patent portfolio through continuation filings, divisional applications, or international extensions (e.g., PCT applications) enhances global protection.
Conclusion
KR20150063587 exemplifies a typical pharmaceutical patent involving complex claim language intended to carve out exclusive rights to a novel compound, formulation, or method of treatment. Its scope and claims appear strategically crafted to cover core embodiments while enabling future claims in related applications. Understanding its position within the broader patent landscape enables stakeholders to make informed decisions, whether for licensing, developing similar therapies, or navigating legal challenges.
Key Takeaways
- The patent primarily protects specific pharmaceutical compounds and their therapeutic applications.
- Its claims likely encompass broad chemical structures and specific treatment methods, with dependent claims narrowing the scope.
- A comprehensive landscape analysis indicates the importance of distinguishing features and prior art considerations.
- Validating the patent’s strength involves assessing claim language, scope, and potential overlapping patents.
- Strategic utilization includes licensing negotiations, designing around claims, or expanding protection internationally.
FAQs
1. What is the main innovation protected by KR20150063587?
The patent primarily protects a novel pharmaceutical composition, including a specific active compound, its formulation, and associated therapeutic methods targeting a defined disease, with unique structural or delivery features that distinguish it from existing art.
2. How broad are the claims in KR20150063587?
The claims likely cover both broad classes of compounds and specific embodiments. The independent claims set the scope for core compounds or methods, while dependent claims specify particular derivatives or formulations.
3. How does the patent landscape influence the value of KR20150063587?
The surrounding patent landscape, including existing patents on similar compounds or treatments, determines the patent’s enforceability and freedom-to-operate. Overlapping patents can pose challenges unless the patent demonstrates clear novelty and inventive step.
4. Can competitors develop alternative therapies without infringing this patent?
Yes, by designing around the patent’s claims—such as employing different compounds not covered by the claims or different treatment methods—competitors can avoid infringement.
5. What strategic steps should patent holders consider for KR20150063587?
Patent owners should consider expanding claims through continuations, pursuing international patents, and monitoring competitor filings to enforce or defend their patent rights effectively.
References
- Korean Intellectual Property Office (KIPO). Patent Application No. KR20150063587.
- World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). Patent Landscape Reports.
- PatentScope. International patent analysis—similar compounds and methods.
- Patent Law Resources. Guidelines for claim drafting and interpretation.
- Industry case studies on pharmaceutical patent strategies.
