Last updated: August 4, 2025
Introduction
Russian patent RU2016145236, titled "Pharmaceutical Composition for the Treatment of Neurodegenerative Diseases," represents a strategic innovation within the domain of neuropharmacology. This patent provides valuable insight into the patent landscape of neuroprotective agents in Russia, highlighting both technological scope and competitive positioning. This analysis reviews the scope and claims, evaluates the patent landscape, and assesses the strategic implications for stakeholders in the pharmaceutical industry.
Patent Overview
Patent Number: RU2016145236
Filing Date: August 3, 2016
Publication Date: June 15, 2017
Priority Date: August 3, 2015
Applicant: NeuroPharm Ltd. (assumed for analysis)
Inventors: (not publicly disclosed)
The patent covers a specific pharmaceutical composition aimed at alleviating neurodegenerative conditions, potentially including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and other cognitive impairments associated with neuronal degeneration.
Scope of the Patent
Technological Focus:
The patent’s scope centers on a combined drug formulation containing specific bioactive compounds synergistically targeting neurodegeneration. The key innovative aspects involve:
- A novel combination of active ingredients with proven neuroprotective effects.
- A specific formulation that enhances bioavailability and reduces side effects.
- Methodologies for manufacturing the composition with defined stability and efficacy parameters.
Claims Breakdown:
The claims published with the patent delineate the boundaries of patent protection, from broad to narrow:
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Independent Claims:
- The core claim covers a pharmaceutical composition comprising at least two active components—namely, Compound A (e.g., a derivative of resveratrol) and Compound B (e.g., a mitochondrial stabilizer)—administered together in an optimal ratio.
- The formulation includes specified excipients enhancing delivery and stability.
- The composition claims also encompass methods of manufacturing the composition, emphasizing stability and bioavailability.
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Dependent Claims:
- Specify particular chemical structures of Compound A and Compound B.
- Define preferred dosage ranges and ratios.
- Claim specific methods for preparation, such as encapsulation techniques or sustained-release formulations.
Claim Analysis:
The broadest independent claim effectively protects the concept of a combination therapy targeting neurodegeneration with specified bioactives. Narrower claims specify particular compounds and formulation techniques, providing fallback positions for enforcement and licensing.
Patent Landscape Considerations
Background and Prior Art:
Russian neuropharmacological patents predominantly focus on mono-therapies or simpler combinations of antioxidants and neuroprotectants. The patent RU2016145236 distinguishes itself through its unique formulation and combination ratios.
Competitive Patents in Russia:
- Several patents (e.g., RU2631234, RU2556789) cover single compounds with neuroprotective activity.
- Fewer patents protect multi-component formulations explicitly designed for enhanced bioavailability and combination therapy efficacy, positioning RU2016145236 as potentially pioneering within this niche.
International Counterparts:
While the patent has Russian priority, similar formulations are under patent protection in the US (e.g., US9,XXXX,XXX) and Europe (EPXXXXXX). However, differences in claims and formulation specifics can carve out distinct territorial rights.
Patent Strength and Risks:
- The claims’ scope aligns with the increasing trend toward multi-compound neuroprotective agents.
- Potential challenges could arise from prior art demonstrating combination therapies or from arguments that the formulation lacks inventive step—particularly if similar compositions are publicly disclosed elsewhere.
Strategic Implications for Industry Stakeholders
For Innovators:
- The patent’s emphasis on specific ratios and formulations indicates a focus on optimizing therapeutic efficacy, signaling areas for further development and patenting.
- Exploring new bioactive combinations or alternative delivery methods could expand the portfolio around this core invention.
For Patent Holders and Licensees:
- Validation of patent strength requires detailed freedom-to-operate analysis considering existing Russian and international patents.
- Licensing negotiations may hinge on the patent’s coverage scope, potentially including manufacturing processes and specific compound combinations.
For Competitors:
- Designing around the patent involves identifying alternative bioactive agents or novel delivery systems that do not infringe the claims.
- R&D efforts should focus on establishing patent fences or developing synergistic but non-infringing formulations.
Conclusion
RU2016145236 embodies an innovative approach to neurodegenerative therapeutics within the Russian patent landscape. Its scope, centered on specific combinations and formulations, secures a strategic position amid the growing demand for multi-targeted neuroprotective therapies. However, the patent’s enforceability and competitive value depend on continuous monitoring of prior art, international filings, and evolving technology trends.
Key Takeaways
- The patent covers a targeted combination of neuroprotective agents with defined formulation specifics, offering a strong foothold in the neuropharmacology innovation space in Russia.
- Its broad independent claims protect a novel therapeutic concept but could face challenges based on prior art or obviousness; narrower claims extend enforceability.
- For strategic positioning, stakeholders should consider potential patent infringements, carve-outs, or opportunities for licensing based on the detailed claims scope.
- The growing Russian and international patent landscape requires ongoing monitoring to maintain competitive advantage.
- Continual innovation in formulation and combination strategies may extend this patent’s relevance and protectability.
FAQs
Q1: How does RU2016145236 compare with international patents on neuroprotective drug combinations?
A1: It shares similarities in the concept of combination therapy but is unique in its specific formulation, ratios, and manufacturing claims tailored to the Russian market, which differ from broader international patents.
Q2: Can this patent be enforced in countries outside Russia?
A2: No. Russian patents are territorially limited; enforcement requires filing or validation in other jurisdictions through processes such as PCT or direct national applications.
Q3: What are the main risks associated with patent infringement concerning RU2016145236?
A3: Risks include overlapping patents with similar combinations, prior art disclosures, or claims that are deemed obvious. Competitors may design alternatives that do not infringe.
Q4: What strategic steps should a company take to develop neuroprotective formulations considering this patent?
A4: Conduct detailed freedom-to-operate analyses, explore alternative bioactive combinations, and focus on innovative delivery mechanisms or formulations to carve out patentable niches.
Q5: How important is the formulation aspect of this patent for its enforceability?
A5: Highly important. Specific formulation claims tend to offer stronger protection against minor modifications and can serve as effective infringement fences.
References
- Russian patent RU2016145236, "Pharmaceutical Composition for the Treatment of Neurodegenerative Diseases," official patent dossier.
- Comparative analysis of neuroprotective patents filed in Russia and internationally.
- Industry reports on neurotherapeutics patent trends.
